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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker calls Walter Bellhaven a walking monster and a miracle of modern monstrosity, condemning his actions at an orphanage.
In plain terms
He describes Walter as a monstrous figure whose deeds at an orphanage are unforgivable.
What can you take from it?
Extreme language emphasizes the horror of child abuse.

Where it applies

  • crime reporting
  • moral outrage

Putting it to work

  • raise awareness
  • denounce abuse

Questions to consider

  • How does language affect public response to abuse?
  • What responsibilities do speakers have when describing victims?

Another view

The hyperbolic language may sensationalize trauma.

More from Phil Hendrie

  1. I hear some people say 'Some of my friends are black,' 'Some of my friends are Jewish,' Well, some of my friends are serial murderers.

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  2. (asked about his lunatic laugh) It is a nervous laugh, yes, but it's also a laugh- I have to laugh when I imagine the walking monstrosity that I was. And now I…

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  3. (to a caller discussing the Michael Jackson trial) I have to say I'm a bit surprised. You're obviously African-American, aren't you a fan?

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