“Loose Lips Might Sink Ships”

This poster is a World War II propaganda advertisement from the United States Office of War Information, illustrated by Seymour Goff. In big letters, the poster reads “Loose Lips Might Sink Ships.” The advertisement utilizes pathos to persuade viewers not to share war information with anyone, in fear of relaying the information to a spy that can disrupt the war effort.

The phrase “Loose Lips Might Sink Ships” coaxes the viewer to keep war secrets to themselves, in fear that they might cause problems for the country’s war effort. Those reading the poster may become afraid of any potential ridicule they may receive if it is found out that they leaked information. Thus, viewers are more likely to remain secretive in fear of being the subject of hate by fellow Americans.

Additionally, the poster literally presents an image of a ship in the process of sinking. Similar to the first situation, most viewers will briefly imagine if a United States navy ship is sinking knowing that it was the result of their gossip. In turn, this vision would encourage extreme guilt on behalf of the viewer. As a result, viewers become extremely conscious not to share any potentially harmful information.

This advertisement utilizes pathos to influence people’s decisions when discussing information about World War II. The idea of being called a “snitch” by fellow Americans or being responsible for a sunken United States ship is terrifying for viewers, and triggers a guilty conscious; thus the advertisement is successful in persuading viewers to remain silent.

Works Cited:

Goff, Seymour R. Loose Lips Might Sink Ships. Digital image.

             ExecutedToday.com. N.p., 03 Nov. 2009. Web. 15 May 2015.