From the introduction of the speech one can clearly see that the tone of the speech is inspirational. The speech is about change, reaching for a higher purpose and uniting to solve the problems in America. Obama sums up his introduction when he states: “We are hungry for change and we are ready to believe again.” The listener is curious to find out what exactly needs to be changed?
Obama uses several anecdotes to describe the problems facing America. He does not describe the problem but rather uses anecdotes from the trenches which add to the appeal of the speech. He uses these stories to expose the problems of healthcare, education, the economy and the war in Iraq. He mentions the Dunkin’ Donuts employee. When he slams outsourcing to foreign countries he does so with a vivid anecdote: “the laid off Maytag factory employee who now competes with his teenager for a $7/hr job at Wal-Mart.” When he talks about the special interest campaign contributions he mentions a $3.01 contribution he received from a lady who tucked it inside a verse of scripture. These stories make the speech sound more personal and reinforce the conversational nature of the speech. It is almost as if your uncle has visited for Sunday dinner and is telling you about the struggles facing some of your old friends in your old neighborhood.
Obama uses the unity word “we” repeatedly throughout the speech. This speech is intended to show that Obama is the leader of the team yet more importantly he is still part of the team. The tone of the speech is that the voters and Obama are the underdogs, and they must stick together to defeat Goliath.
The speech is not laced with many examples of vivid language yet there is a wonderful example in the line where he states “It’s the politics that uses religion as a wedge and patriotism as a bludgeon.”
Obama uses the two worlds approach when comparing the current situation in America with the future potential prosperity that is possible if he is elected. He describes the crumbling schools, the unaffordable healthcare and the poor economy where people can’t pay their mortgages. He then essentially asks “do you want to continue living in this world?” He does this when he proclaims “This election is about the past vs. the future.” Obama then goes on to describe positive elements of his world. He describes the political inclusion of even a $3.01 donor, a far contrast to the multimillion dollar lobbyists in Washington. He also talks about the racial unity that brought change in Chicago. Finally, he talks about the woman who is now devoted to working with inner city-children. Obama describes the new world and he makes you want to be a part of it.
Obama also makes frequent use of the rhetorical devices of anaphora and epiphora. This is where a speaker repeats only one part of a phrase several times. Anaphora is repetition at the start of a sentence and epiphora is repetition at the end of a sentence. You can see the use of this device highlighted in bold.
The message of the speech is “yes we can change, if you elect me.” Obama continually repeats this message as he wanted to drive it home to the audience. If there was one thing that they would remember from the speech it is that catch phrase or sound bite. Obama uses this catch phrase six times in the last three paragraphs! This repetition is used to ingrain the takeaway message.
Alexander Thornton is a professional speechwriter who can help you learn more about delivering a dynamite speech. If you need help with a particular type of speech such as a wedding or birthday speech you can browse our speech templates and presentation tips at www.speeches-toasts.com If you are looking for more public speaking ideas you can learn dozens of tips at www.newrulesofpublicspeaking
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