* Persuasion: To convince the reader to adopt a particular belief, take a specific action, or change their perspective on a topic. This often involves using appeals to logic (logos), emotion (pathos), and credibility (ethos).
* Information: To clearly and effectively convey information to the reader. While seemingly straightforward, rhetoric plays a role in structuring the information, choosing specific words and examples, and organizing the argument to make it easily understandable and memorable.
* Inspiration: To evoke strong feelings or motivate the reader to act or feel a certain way. This often involves vivid imagery, emotionally charged language, and appeals to shared values.
The author's point, then, isn't just what they're *saying*, but *how* they're saying it, and the effect they intend to have on the reader through their chosen rhetorical strategies. They might be aiming for a simple agreement, a profound emotional response, or a call to action—the specific "point" is shaped by their rhetorical choices.