John F. Kennedy's Moral Address

A president’s inaugural address is perhaps one of the most defining aspects of their entire career due to the inclusion of carefully woven emotional appeals and blandishments that encourage the citizens to become more politically active. The enticing nature of these empty promises infiltrates virtually every American’s mind, signifying a beginning to a promising era that results in feelings of patriotic optimism. However, it was not only the Americans that were subjected to this versatile message; instead, Kennedy directed his speech to individuals across the world in an inclusive call for resilience. The charismatic and youthful president John F. Kennedy successfully assuaged the nation’s anxiety and utilized his powerful platform to promote …show more content…
He emphasizes the importance of cooperation amongst groups by reiterating the idea that “both sides” must be willing to accept the responsibilities that coexist with peaceful world relations (Kennedy). Not only is this quotation an example of anaphora, but it also contains an underlying incorporation of logical appeal that enhances his overall manipulation of the peoples’ pessimistic mindsets. Division was prevalent within the nation during this particular time period in a manner that directly corresponded to the melancholy perspective of most Americans; however, it was not only Americans that were burdened with this lack of unity. Nations across the world had succumbed to the looming presence of communism as contrasting political beliefs set forth a precedence that absolute power overrules equality. Therefore, Kennedy’s desire for unity does not remain contained within the United States; instead, he is calling for a peaceful coexistence between all corners of the world that may have been impacted by political conflicts. By repeating this statement various times through his speech, he is further increasing the overall power of his words by making them more memorable to the people. Kennedy infiltrates the American mindset with a call for unity as he proclaims what can be accomplished in a cooperative world that lacks …show more content…
His abundant religious references are entirely representative of the religious freedom that distinguishes America from other countries across the world. He references the Bible as he affirms that the citizens must, “bear the burden of a long twilight struggle, year in and year out, ‘rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation’” (Kennedy). This quotation encourages the people to not lose sight of the future despite the current circumstances, calling them to persevere in times of duress. The spiritual incorporation in this quote also reminds Americans of their freedoms that should not be taken for granted due to the fact that people of other nations are not as privileged. They must take solace in hope and cannot become too transfixed on life’s negativities or they may lose purpose. Furthermore, this aged quote proves to people everywhere that difficulties occur throughout all stages of life no matter the time period. The biblical references also contribute to JFK’s knowledgeable presence due to the implicit exemplification of his wisdom. Overall, JFK’s reassuring nature and optimistic attitude provides the Americans with perseverance as his logical appeal enumerates the importance of compromise. It is in the weakest moments that individuals seek a reliable source to redirect their worries and assuage their pessimism, and Kennedy fits the mold of