American political leaders have had to depend upon political rhetoric to convey their thoughts and goals to the people. During the period of the late 1700's and the American Revolution, the written word was especially powerful. The political and social situation of the colonies was tenuous, and "Americans" minds were open, or at least vulnerable, to new ideas. Men such as Thomas Paine too advantage of writing as the most effective means of communication. In Common Sense, Paine uses the power of language and a deliberate style in order to persuade the reader.
It is vital to remain mindful of Paine's intentions. He is attempting to convince the people that it is time to declare independence and take arms against England. He, therefore, establishes the relationship between England and America, where England is the "violent abuse(r) of power" and the "good people of (the colonies) are grievously oppressed" (585). "The king hath undertaken in his own right, to support the Parliament in what he calls theirs," (585) and Paine asserts that this "usurp ation" (585) of power must be questioned and cannot be tolerated. "Great Britain . . . propos[ed] force." It was "the choice of the King" (586). The colonies simply "accepted the challenge" (586) and basically had no choice but to do so.
Paine was aware that his pamphlet was bold and was going to be controversial. He could not afford to alienate anyone who might be persuaded by his argument. So he is humble and subtle in introducing his intentions. Paine presents himself and his discourse as being objective. He does not take an elitist stance and offers "nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense" (585). to ensure that his opinion will be per ceived as objective, Paine "studiously avoid(s) everything which is personal. . . . Compliments as well as censure to individuals make no part (of the work)" (585).
However, Common Sense is not a "simple" o...