On January 20th 2009, at 11:05 CST, history was made. The United States of America swore in its 44th president. Barack Hussein Obama, "The Man", elected to lead this great nation made history by being the first black president. Before I even speak on the speech, I believe that this is an argument in its on entity. I think this is an argument about the future of our nation, the type of progress we are making. Progress by which we are not only choosing the most qualified man/woman for the job (any job), but also by tearing down those color barriers, race barriers, and ethnic barriers.
Upon being sworn in and taking the podium to address the thousands of people in front of him, and millions watching around the world he remained poised and spoke with great confidence and conviction. The first argument I noticed was when he spoke on the negative present state of our nation from that of costly health care, to the ways we use our energy. I think this was effective because he spoke the truth, and for me, and I think for many, it made you personally want to be apart of the change and leveling of our economy and our nation. He then went on to propose and inform us about his plans while in office. He said "On this day we've come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises that have for far to long strangled our politics". He spoke with a sense of authority that was warming and wanted, incorporated with that much needed feel of prosperity for this nation. He perfected the use of the rhetoric triangle throughout his speech, I feel with a heavy dose on the pathos end.
"On this day we have gathered because we've chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discore". This is an example of arguments to make decisions. We all know that we are in a recession, a trying time for all, but we are making the decision to work for the betterment of the country.
The entire speech was a call to action for me. He said " Its time for us to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin the work of remaking America". What more can he say? I almost felt the need to plant a flower, or recycle a can at that very moment. :-) But seriously, It was an argument to the audience, which happen to be the entire U.S. The book says "no argument can be effective unless it speaks compelling to others", and I was very compelled.
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Very good blogging. I agree it was a very big day in history, finally seeing somebody's skills not color matter . I was a very proud american that day. I also agree it did make me want to participate in helping change our nation. We do as americans need to work to make things better. I really feel you the speech did make you want to spark up change instantly
ReplyDeleteI really like your blog, especially the title and how you refer to Obama as "the man," it adds a touch of personality. It sounds like you really care about Obama and the concerns of our country, which is good, obviously. The examples you thought of were clever too, especially about how the entire speech was an argument. Overall good job.
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