Pathos is a mode of persuasion that appeals to emotion. Pathos has been used for thousands of years, and it is still used today to communicate “feeling.” We’re going to look at some pathos examples, but first, let’s look at what makes it different from the other rhetorical appeals: logos and ethos.
Pathos Examples
Logos vs pathos vs ethos
Aristotle outlined logos, pathos, and ethos as the three modes of persuasion in his book Rhetoric. These “rhetorical appeals” are used to appeal to logic, emotion, and credibility.
Writers and speakers use these “rhetorical appeals” to persuade people to their point of view. Now that we know what logos, pathos, and ethos are, let’s look at some pathos examples.
Pathos Examples Sentences
Pathos examples in literature
There are lots of examples of pathos in writing. Writers use pathos to communicate emotion in their characters and through the mood of their text(s).
Nicholas Sparks’s novel The Notebook is regarded as an “emotional” read by many; and it begins with a strong admission of pathos:
Pathos Examples in Literature • Pathos Example in The Notebook
Sparks uses repetition to highlight the “common nature” of his narrator. This allows him to emphasize the importance of the narrator’s love for his soulmate, which, despite not meriting monuments or a place in history, has “always been enough.” Emotional indeed.
However, not every emotional example is tear-jerking; other examples of pathos in writing instill terror instead. Take Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment for example. In this excerpt, Raskolnikov has a horrifying emotional breakdown after committing murder.
"Fear gained more and more mastery over him, especially after this second, quite unexpected murder. He longed to run away from the place as fast as possible. And if at that moment he had been capable of seeing and reasoning more correctly, if he had been able to realise all the difficulties of his position, the hopelessness, the hideousness and the absurdity of it, if he could have understood how many obstacles and, perhaps, crimes he had still to overcome or to commit, to get out of that place and to make his way home, it is very possible that he would have flung up everything, and would have gone to give himself up, and not from fear, but from simple horror and loathing of what he had done.” – Fyodor Dostoevsky
Dostoevsky describes the loss of reason (logos) as a means to exacerbate the pathos of the scene. Raskolnikov is reeling from his crime; which is supported in the sentence structure and syntax. Fear can have strong emotional affect; proven succinctly by the paranoia seen here.
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Pathos Commercial Examples
Pathos advertisement examples
Advertisers use pathos to get consumers emotionally invested in their brand(s). There are many different ways to go about using pathos in advertising, but one of the most surefire ways is a heartwarming story. This Budweiser ad is certainly a heartwarming story.
Pathos Examples • Heartwarming Budweiser Ad
Who doesn’t love clydesdales rescuing a puppy from a pack of wolves? Almost makes you want to crack open a cold one, right? Right?! Well, even if it doesn’t, it probably leaves you with a positive feeling on the brand; even if it’s only at a subconscious level. So the next time you see Budweiser, you’re reminded of a feel good story about dog and horse friends.
Public service announcements can also use pathos. For example: this anti drunk driving ad utilizes a “scared straight” approach.
Pathos Commercial Examples • Scared Straight Anti Drunk Driving PSA
This ad is meant to instill a sense of fear in people who consider driving under the influence. The pathos here is intimidating rather than heartwarming.
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Pathos Examples
Pathos examples in music
Music is an emotional medium, so it makes sense that pathos would be something worth taking a look at. Of course, emotion can be communicated two ways in music: through the acoustics and the lyrics. We’re going to look at some examples of lyrics to see how songwriters communicate emotion.
“A CHANGE IS GONNA COME” BY SAM COOKE
“It's been too hard living, but I'm afraid to die. 'Cause I don't know what's up there, beyond the sky. It's been a long – a long time coming, but I know a change gon' come. Oh yes, it will.”
Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” is a great example of pathos in writing. The song tells the story of a person confronting hopelessness and expressing optimism for the future.
“YESTERDAY” BY ATMOSPHERE
“I thought I saw you yesterday but I didn't stop 'cause you was walkin' the opposite way. I guess I coulda shouted out your name, but even if it was you, I don't know what I would say. We could sit and reminisce about the old school. Maybe share a cigarette 'cause we're both fools. Chop it up and compare perspectives: life, love, stress, and setbacks”
Atmosphere builds a strong sense of nostalgia in the opening verse of “Yesterday” through references to reminiscing. We’re not sure about the nature of the relationship between the narrator and the “you” in the story; but the admission at the end recontextualizes the story that came before and adds a wallop of pathos: “I thought I saw you yesterday, but I know it wasn’t you cause you passed away Dad.”
“PERFECT CIRCLE / GOD SPEED” BY MAC MILLER
“Everybody sayin’ I need rehab cause I'm speedin' with a blindfold on and won't be long 'til they watching me crash. And they don't wanna see that. They don't want me to OD and have to talk to my mother telling her they could have done more to help me and she'll be crying saying that she'll do anything to have me back”
These lyrics from Mac Miller are evidence of pathos… but they’re even more emotional when you consider that he essentially predicts his own death via a drug overdose. Sometimes, external factors – like the tragedy of fiction turning into reality – can add pathos to writing.
Pathos Examples
Pathos examples in speeches
Speechwriters (and speakers) use pathos to build emotional connection with their audience. A great example of pathos can be found in Jim Valvano’s iconic 1993 ESPY speech, given just 55 days before his death.
Pathos Examples • Jimmy V’s Emotional Speech
There was nary a dry eye in Madison Square Garden after Jimmy V’s speech. His masterful use of the modes of persuasion was on full display, as he leveraged logic, emotion, and credibility. He also utilized effective rhetorical techniques, such as the rule of three, when he said “I always have to think about what's important in life to me are these three things. Where you started, where you are and where you're going to be” and “Cancer can take away all my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever.”
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What are the theories of emotion?
We’ve established that pathos is an appeal to emotion – but what are the “theories” of emotion? In our next article, we’ll break down theories of emotion, with examples and criticisms. By the end, you’ll know what the different theories of emotion are and how they’re used.
Up Next: Emotion Theories Explained →
A boom operator, a key player in the film, television, and radio industry, is entrusted with managing the boom microphone, an instrument critical for recording superior, unblemished sound on set. They are essentially the sound artists of the set, ensuring every spoken word, every sound effect, is captured with utmost precision.
To delve deeper into the intricacies of this role, let’s explore the responsibilities, the pathway to becoming a boom operator, and the potential earnings that come with it.
What is a Boom Operator in Film Production?
First, let’s define boom operator
Boom operators play a crucial role on film sets, responsible for capturing high-quality audio. Let's delve deeper into the specifics of their job description and the skills required to thrive in this position.
BOOM OPERATOR DEFINITION
What is a boom operator in film production?
A Boom Operator, in the context of film, television, or radio production, is an audio technician who operates the boom microphone. This essential role involves meticulously capturing high-quality sound on set.
The boom microphone itself is a large, long-range microphone typically mounted on a specialized arm or "boom." The skilled boom operator expertly maneuvers the boom to capture clear and crisp audio while remaining strategically out of the camera's frame, ensuring a seamless visual experience for the audience.
What is a Boom Operator in Film Responsible For?
- Manages boom microphone positioning
- Ensures clear audio capture
- Avoids intrusion in shot frame
Boom Operator Job Description
What does a boom operator do?
As a boom operator, you have several important responsibilities and duties that contribute to the overall sound quality of a production. Let's break them down into subsections:
Boom Mic Operation
Your primary responsibility is to hold or rig the boom mic in such a way that it remains close to the actors or action without being visible in the camera's view.
Boom mic operator
You must closely follow the movement of the actors, ensuring that the microphone captures dialogues clearly while minimizing unwanted noise.
Sound Management Assistance
In addition to mic handling, you often assist in managing the overall sound on set.
This may involve handling radio mics for actors, ensuring they are properly set up and functioning.
You may also be responsible for optimizing acoustics in the shooting location to achieve the best sound quality.
Collaboration with Sound Mixer
Your role requires close collaboration with the Sound Mixer to ensure optimal audio quality for the production.
Boom in film production
Working together, you and the Sound Mixer strive to achieve the best possible sound for the project, taking into consideration factors such as ambient noise, microphone placement, and overall audio balance.
By fulfilling these duties and responsibilities, you play a crucial role in capturing high-quality audio for the production.
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What is a Boom Operator in Film Production?
How to become a boom operator
To establish a successful career as a boom operator, there are certain steps you need to take and skills you need to acquire. Being a highly technical role, it requires a solid foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience.
Formal Education
Start by pursuing a degree or diploma in sound engineering, film production, or a related field. These programs provide a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and technical skills necessary for a career in boom operating.
Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on training is invaluable in this field. Consider volunteering or interning on film sets to gain practical experience and exposure to the industry. This will allow you to learn from experienced professionals and build important connections.
Learn the Equipment
Familiarize yourself with the different types of audio equipment such as boom microphones, audio mixers, and other equipment used in the field. Understanding how to set up and operate this equipment effectively is crucial for success as a boom operator.
Boom operator equipment
Develop Communication Skills
As a boom operator, clear communication with the sound mixer, director, and other crew members is essential. Hone your communication skills to effectively understand and implement their instructions, ensuring seamless audio recording on set.
Build a Portfolio
Create a portfolio showcasing your work as a boom operator. Include examples of projects you have worked on, demonstrating your ability to capture high-quality audio in various settings. This portfolio will be valuable when applying for jobs or freelance opportunities.
Network and Seek Opportunities
Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and network with other professionals in the field. Stay updated on job opportunities and actively seek out chances to work on film projects, whether it's independent films, commercials, or other productions.
Remember, becoming a successful boom operator requires a combination of education, practical experience, technical skills, and a strong network. With dedication and persistence, you can pave your way into this exciting field of work.
What is a Boom Operator in Film Paid?
Boom operator salary
According to PayScale's 2021 data, the average salary for a boom operator in the United States is estimated to be around $45,000 per year. However, it's important to note that this figure can vary significantly based on factors such as the individual's level of experience, the production's budget, and the geographical location of the work.
Factors like the size and scope of the production, the demand for experienced boom operators, and the cost of living in different regions can all influence the actual salary range for professionals in this field. Therefore, it's crucial for aspiring boom operators to consider these factors when evaluating potential career opportunities.
Searching for Boom Operator Work
Find boom operator jobs
Finding work as a boom operator involves networking and taking advantage of job boards and industry resources. Sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Mandy regularly post job listings for boom operators.
It can also be beneficial to join industry organizations such as the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) to gain access to union jobs and networking opportunities.
A boom operator is essential in film production for clear, high-quality audio. This career requires formal education, hands-on experience, and understanding of audio equipment. With communication skills, a portfolio, and a professional network, aspiring boom operators can succeed. Perseverance, dedication, and passion are key to success in any career.
Up Next
Discover more filmmaking roles
Boom operators are often unsung hero’s an an important role on set. To continue through our series of the various filmmaking roles and positions, you can explore similar jobs like Sound Designer, Director, or Editor. Or you can jump over to our Film Crew Index to browse the entire range of filmmaking roles. Understanding what everyone’s role on a film set is will help make you a better overall filmmaker and a more efficient crew member.
Up Next: Explore more crew positions →
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