1. Many of the words in Kennedy’s speech are abstract because they make his speech appeal to a broad range of people. Since abstract words allow multiple interpretations for Kennedy’s ideas for the future, they audience is more likely to accept his viewpoint. Additionally, the abstract words help create an idealistic tone in his speech. For example, he describes his inauguration as a “celebration of freedom” among Americans rather than a “victory of a party”. The word “freedom,” which he does not define, contributes to his idealism since it has a strong positive connotation for almost all of its interpretations. In contrast, the word “victory,” which he rejects, would not be viewed positively by most people considering his narrow margin of victory. Most of the other abstract words that Kennedy uses throughout his speech (devotion, loyalty,
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Kennedy uses many archaic words to add eloquence to his speech and create a presidential persona, which enhances his credibility. For example, he explains that he wants every nation to know that “we shall pay any price, bear any burden…oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” By using the archaic words “shall” and “foe,” he appears more educated and creates a formal tone. If he had chosen to use more commonly used words, such as “will” and “enemy,” his speech would not have been as effective in establishing him as a wise and refined man.
4. The use of opposites in Kennedy’s speech reflect his attempt to unite the American people despite their vast differences. When he states, “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich,” he tries to unite the rich and the poor. Although both groups of people are highly divided socioeconomically, Kennedy asserts that they will only be able to grow if they work towards common goals. He also suggests that he will be a president for all people, since he shows that he is concerned about the growth of the United States as a
Kennedy uses many archaic words to add eloquence to his speech and create a presidential persona, which enhances his credibility. For example, he explains that he wants every nation to know that “we shall pay any price, bear any burden…oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” By using the archaic words “shall” and “foe,” he appears more educated and creates a formal tone. If he had chosen to use more commonly used words, such as “will” and “enemy,” his speech would not have been as effective in establishing him as a wise and refined man.
4. The use of opposites in Kennedy’s speech reflect his attempt to unite the American people despite their vast differences. When he states, “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich,” he tries to unite the rich and the poor. Although both groups of people are highly divided socioeconomically, Kennedy asserts that they will only be able to grow if they work towards common goals. He also suggests that he will be a president for all people, since he shows that he is concerned about the growth of the United States as a