"But most people can recognize a rhetorical device when they see it. "
Actually I'm surprised by the number of people who don't recognize satire and its accompanying literary device called hyperbole. That includes a few freepers.
They whine and complain that Ann is "not telling the truth." Well, how about that. Satire, by its nature, uses the literary tools of exagerration and humor to make a point.
Both Mark Twain and HL Mencken wrote satire and were roundly criticized in their day.
Ann stands in good company.
I will be the first to admit, I have a real issue with satire these days.
In my opinon, satire needs to somehow be distinguishable in some way from reality.
Liberals are SO outlandish, that there is nothing short of the introduction of Aliens from outer space that can make something recognizable as satire, and even then, there are some prominent liberals who think Karl Rove is an alien.
If it didn't make me so angry, it would be hilarious.