Image Rhetorical Analysis

Observations:

1.  The bright white lights shooting up in the background and the red behind the man pop out against the dark uniform the man is wearing and the dark sky.  The man's white gloves stand out as well.

2.  The central figure is the man standing in uniform in the center of the photograph.  The white lights in the background, forming a semi-circle, help to lead the viewer's eye to the central figure.

3.  Not much is going on in the background except the shining white lights.

4.  The way the man stands with his head held high, and the uniform he is wearing, which appears to be a military uniform possibly, adds to his importance.

5.  Because the picture was taken below the central point of focus, it adds length to his height, maybe adding to his importance.

Inferences

1.  Because the Chinese military man is the center of focus in the picture, the author may have been trying to communicate a common ground, because all countries have some type of military.  

2.  The way the man is positioned in the photograph, along with being a part of the military, may be suggesting that this man is a symbol of importance and pride to China.

3.  China, by hosting the Olympics in their country, may be trying to shine a new light on their country.  Because the Olympics is a world-wide event, broadcasted on TV's across the world, China may be trying to come across as an ally, as opposed to an enemy.

4.  The fact that the Olympics are being hosted in China may mean that the future is brighter than the past.  Also, that the past can be forgotten and forgiven.

5.  The Olympics also builds bridges and forms common ground because all countries have athletes that represent them.

I believe that the picture does appeal to its audiences emotionally because the Olympics are a world-wide spectacle.  Many people, whether attending in person, or viewing from home, can admire the photograph as a symbol of pride, even if it may only be China's.  The image does a well job at causing people to believe they are witnessing something of importance because the Olympics happen only every couple of years, and none are like the previous; this photograph will represent the Olympics of 2008.  Even though I am not positive if the bright white lights are actually lights of possibly some type of fire, I think their only purpose is to bring attention to the central figure.  The photographer chose a good photograph to show the world an inspiring aspect of the Olympics.