ABSTRACT
As a kind of thinking, interpretation uses available information to create knowledge beyond what is immediately observable. For critics, interpretation extends knowledge about rhetoric by explaining how the rhetorical devices identified through analysis work together and succeed or fail as persuasion. Providing interpretation is “risky” because you must take responsibility for the conclusions you draw about the discourse you are examining. When interpreting your findings, your “voice” as knowledgeable agent emerges in that your thinking (as subject) offers new knowledge about rhetoric as communication process. Consequently, to provide the best knowledge to your clients, colleagues, family, and even yourself, your thinking needs to be controlled and systematic. Useful interpretations are rigorous and creative answers to good questions.
