"Civility Not Censorship"

1.  Linda Chavez begins her column saying, "Civility in public discourse is important..." She uses these six words as a springboard to her argument: civility is necessary; empty, shallow, and bland discussion is not.  By beginning with these words, Chavez not only admits to the necessity of civility, but provides herself with an opportunity to present her argument.
2.  Fitting in with all the political metaphors based on wars, fighting, and aggression, bellicose speaks of one who is inclined or eager to fight, aggressively hostile, belligerent, or pugnacious.Chavez used the word "bellicose" to truly convey the types of metaphors being used.  By using an adjective in the same field as the metaphors being discussed, she is able to blend her writing with her argument.
3.  Chavez is trying to convince her readers that, while civility is very important, it is more important to express one's emotions and beliefs in a way that is true and accurate.  She best exemplifies this point when she says, "Does that mean we should ignore efforts by political figures or others to inflame passions by using hateful words? Of course not -- and that's what the efforts to bring civility to public discourse should be about...It would be a good thing if all of us, not just politicians and pundits, learned to think before we speak -- but being thoughtful doesn't mean we have to be bland."  In saying this, Chavez clearly states her beliefs that honest, powerful, and moving speech can be diplomatic and appropriate.

4.  I fully agree with Chavez' statement.  While it is very important to honor others' differences, it is even more important to express oneself truthfully and sincerely.