"He steps on stage and draws the sword of rhetoric, and when he is through, someone is lying wounded and thousands of others are either angry or consoled"

In Pete Hamill's evocative quote, "He steps on phase and draws the sword of rhetoric, and when he is through, someone is lying wounded and countless others are either mad or consoled", the power and impact of rhetoric are strongly depicted. Here, rhetoric is compared to a sword, recommending that words, much like a weapon, can be wielded with accuracy and force to influence, encourage, and even hurt.

The images of stepping on phase symbolizes going into a public arena or platform, where one's words hold weight and exposure. This could be in the context of a political rally, a public speech, or any scenario where a person addresses an audience. By utilizing the metaphor of a sword, Hamill stresses not just the effectiveness of rhetoric but also its dual-edged nature; it can cut, harm, or heal, depending on the intentions and ability of the speaker.

The expression "someone is lying wounded" recommends that rhetoric has the capability to target people, exposing or assaulting them with such precision that they are left hurt or decreased. This might imply a challenger in a debate or somebody slammed in the orator's discourse. Words here are not mere noises; they possess the sharpness to wound deeply, impacting track records and emotions.

Conversely, the quote likewise highlights rhetoric's power to evoke strong emotions in the audience, leaving "thousands of others either angry or consoled". Hamill captures the dichotomy and spectrum of psychological reactions that efficient rhetoric can provoke. Anger recommends that the rhetoric has stirred enthusiasms or dissent, rallying opposition or discontent. Consolation, nevertheless, shows that the message has actually brought comfort, explanation, or a sense of uniformity to listeners.

Overall, Hamill's quote underscores the extensive impact that a skillful speaker can have. Words end up being a powerful tool or weapon in shaping ideas, prompting action, and swaying the masses-- an art maybe as timeless as it is crucial in public discourse and management.