Meta-Rhetoric: The Art of Counterpoint.

This paper attempts to define meta-rhetoric. Meta-rhetoric is a collection of micro-rhetoric taken together to suggest a larger image in the mind's eye of the reader. An analogy is suggested between a large graphic image comprised of numerous individual mini-images. It is asserted that, in an analogous manner, readers of a text organized around a meta-rhetorical counterpoint can be drawn into the textual development as co-producers of the textual imagery. As the text is read, the various elements of the micro-rhetoric begin to form and suggest a global image in the mind's eye. This paper presents three aspects of the way meta-rhetoric is used in textual styling, illustrating with examples drawn from the following French artistic expressions: texts, speeches, films, and novelettes. It is concluded that meta-rhetoric can be used to stylize text is three ways: through textual seasoning, memory, and sign posting. (Contains 16 references.) (KFT)