Read the following excerpt from John F. Kennedy's First Inaugural Speech. Then, respond to the question that follows.
In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than mine, will rest the final success or failure of our course. Since this country was founded, each generation of Americans has been summoned to give testimony to its national loyalty. The graves of young Americans who answered the call to service surround the globe.
Now the trumpet summons us again—not as a call to bear arms, though arms we need—not as a call to battle, though embattled we are—but a call to bear the burden of a long twilight struggle, year in and year out, "rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation"—a struggle against the common enemies of man: tyranny, poverty, disease and war itself.
Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all mankind? Will you join in that historic effort?
In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility—I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it—and the glow from that fire can truly light the world.
And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.
My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.
Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love …
President John F. Kennedy's 1961 Inaugural Address contains numerous examples of figurative language. Examine the speech, paying close attention to the figurative language devices used.
In a well-written paragraph of 5–7 sentences:
select two figurative language devices from Kennedy's speech
identify each device
explain how the use of the figurative language contributed to the overall message and purpose of the speech
In John F. Kennedy's 1961 Inaugural Address, he uses figurative language to emphasize his message and purpose. One example of figurative language is the metaphor of a "long twilight struggle" to describe the fight against tyranny, poverty, disease, and war. This metaphor paints a vivid picture of a long and difficult battle, and emphasizes the need for perseverance and dedication. Another example of figurative language is the use of a rhetorical question to challenge the audience to join in the effort to create a "grand and global alliance." This rhetorical question encourages the audience to take action and become part of the solution. The use of figurative language in Kennedy's speech helps to emphasize the importance of the message and the need for collective action. It also helps to create a sense of urgency and inspires the audience to take action.
One figurative language device used in President John F. Kennedy's First Inaugural Address is an allusion. An allusion is a reference to a well-known person, event, or work of literature. In this speech, Kennedy refers to the graves of young Americans who answered the call to service surrounding the globe. This is an allusion to the sacrifices made by American soldiers in various wars throughout history. By using this allusion, Kennedy invokes a sense of patriotism and collective responsibility among his audience, emphasizing the importance of national loyalty and the duty to defend freedom.
Another figurative language device used in the speech is an antithesis. Antithesis involves the use of contrasting ideas to create a balanced and powerful statement. Kennedy employs antithesis when he states, "ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country." This statement juxtaposes the individual's responsibility towards their country against what the country can do for them. The use of antithesis in this statement enhances its rhetorical impact by presenting a clear contrast and calling for collective action and sacrifice for the greater good. It reinforces the message of the speech, which emphasizes the importance of unity and working together to overcome challenges.