Analysis of President Obamas Inaugural Speech in 2009 - Essay Example

... As well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath.

The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents. So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of a crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.’

Exigencies

The given exigencies captured in the speech accurately give an impression of a refined invention of President Obama's speech thereby making it effective. The first exigency expressed by President Obama talks about war which has caused the country both hatred and violence. (Poggi pg23)War is a menace that the country has faced with other countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. (Mingolelli pg45) The president acknowledges the fact that war in America with other countries must come to a halt. The audience feels represented.

The second exigency talks about a weakened economy that has resulted because of war. The president recognizes that economic growth plays a pivotal role in the development of a country. The American people agree with the presidency that economic growth would empower living standards in the country. (Nuhringpg67) This aspect arouses the audience.

The third exigency talks about preparing the nation for a new age that would encompass all the individuals in America. In a nutshell, President Obama states to the country that his leadership would be inclusive, participatory, and consultative. The challenge lies in both the president and the people of America. President Obama was making references to segregation and slavery that Americans felt attached to emotionally. Such statements easily reach every American thereby building President Obamas

Conclusion

 In the opening remarks, the president makes an appeal to ethos by stating that he is humbled by being the choice of the people to tackle the issues bedeviling the country.

President Obama who is a naturally seasoned orator made history from the mammoth audience while delivering an effective inaugural speech. (Greg pg22)The organization and refinement of the speech coupled with a powerful appeal to emotions left observers in awe and tears. The pleas to logos and ethos that Obama remarked on in his speech added ethos and credibility.