Letter From Birmingham Jail

Paragraphs 33 & 34: There is a shift in tone at the beginning of 33. What is the tone for 33? Cite evidence from the text to support your answer. Then, what does it change to in 34? Cite evidence from the text to support your answer.

33- Let me take note of my other major disappointment. I have been so greatly disappointed with the white church and its leadership. Of course, there are some notable exceptions. I am not unmindful of the fact that each of you has taken some significant stands on this issue. I commend you, Reverend Stallings, for your Christian stand on this past Sunday, in welcoming Negroes to your worship service on a non segregated basis. I commend the Catholic leaders of this state for integrating Spring Hill College several years ago.

34- But despite these notable exceptions, I must honestly reiterate that I have been disappointed with the church. I do not say this as one of those negative .critics who can always find. something wrong with the church. I say this as a minister of the gospel, who loves the church; who was nurtured in its bosom; who has been sustained by its spiritual blessings and who will remain true to it as long as the cord of Rio shall lengthen

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In P. 33, the tone is appreciative, commending, as King thanks those who have supported his ideas.

I commend you, Reverend Stallings, for your Christian stand on this past Sunday, in welcoming Negroes to your worship service on a non segregated basis. I commend the Catholic leaders of this state for integrating Spring Hill College several years ago.

P 34

King's tone returns to one of minor disappointment, but rather than take his intended audience to task, he makes his point by reaching out to their shared beliefs.

I say this as a minister of the gospel, who loves the church; who was nurtured in its bosom; who has been sustained by its spiritual blessings and who will remain true to it as long as the cord of Rio shall lengthen.

Source(s)

Letter From Birmingham Jail