Jackson Marley Marley 1

Ms.Dott
English III Honors
29 October 2017

How “Impossible” Inspires Possibility

The first impression of the image captures dark lighting and

the word “Impossible” written in black ink. As you work through the

letters in the word, there is a tear in the paper and the word

“possible” is torn away and slightly raised above the dull colored wall

leaving a shadow behind it. The lighting shifts to highlight the word

“possible” in a bright, positive mood signaling to the viewer that you want to be present here, not

back in the shadows. This image was created to inspire and encourage viewers to chase and

achieve their goals regardless of barriers.

The simplicity of the image allows it to be relatable and successful at connecting with

the audience. Since the image is not addressing a specific example, each person viewing it can

attach it to their own struggle. This adds to the logos of the image and its ability to stay relevant

over time by connecting with a broad spectrum of viewers.

Logos is also used in the design of the image. The artist makes the image easy to

analyze with a sequence of events from left to right. The dark lighting on the left side of the

picture makes the reader feel as though that side of the picture is depressing rather than

uplifting. As you continue to look at the image you read the letters “im” and then notice a tear in

the paper to symbolize that this part of the word has been broken off and will remain in the

depressing part of the image. After the tear in the paper, the remaining word “possible” is left

with a bright and clear focus changing the mood from depressing to upbeat. Finally, the reader

will notice the red underline beneath the word “possible” emphasizing the artist’s point.

With deeper analysis of the image you will notice “possible” is leaving its shadow on the

mono-colored wall behind. This is interpreted to mean when achieving what is considered to be

impossible, you will separate yourself from the status quo. This would further reinforce the

artist’s purpose of inspiring the reader to achieve what others do not accept as possible.
Jackson Marley Marley 1
Ms.Dott
English III Honors
29 October 2017

Some may argue the image is stereotypical and

indistinguishable from other images with a similar message. This is

false because the hidden messages that are present will distinguish

the image from other inspirational pictures. Additionally, the lighting

and bold underlining in the image will stand out in a crowd.

The artist uses pathos in the image as well. The purpose of

the image is to inspire and encourage viewers to chase and accomplish their goals regardless

of obstacles. The target audience is someone who is doubting themselves or uncertain about

pursuing a goal or acting on an idea. After viewing the image the reader will feel like someone

out there can relate to their doubts and uncertainty, creating positivity in the viewer.

By creating this image the artist was able to encourage viewers to pursue their dreams

and achieve their goals regardless of the level of support from others. This message is delivered

with the help of logos, pathos, and the viewer’s ability to follow through the image in the proper

order. After analyzing this image a viewer will feel inspired and reassured that they can achieve

their dreams.
Jackson Marley Marley 1
Ms.Dott
English III Honors
29 October 2017

Works Cited
“Ethos-Pathos-Logos-The-3-Rhetorical-Appeals.” Dr. Williams :
USC Upstate : English Program / Ethos-Pathos-Logos-The-3-
Rhetorical-Appeals,
georgehwilliams.pbworks.com/w/page/14266873/Ethos-Pathos-Logos-The-3-Rhetorical-Appeals.

“Impossible Quotes Inspirational.” Impossible Quotes Inspirational. QuotesGram,

quotesgram.com/impossible-quotes-inspirational/.