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Speech Analysis

Public Speaking

By W.S. KlassPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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I. Introduction

a) I chose the Address Commemorating 40th Anniversary of the Desegregation of Little Rock Central High School, delivered by my favorite president of the United States of America thus far, William Jefferson Clinton on the 25th of September in 1997. Race has always been a great historical issue that has inspired great speeches. Former President “Bill” Clinton delivered a powerful speech regarding not only the issue of race; not only touching the history that occurred at Little Rock Central High School. He delivered a powerful speech discussing and showing his interests in the education of students and our future generations.

b) Former President, Bill Clinton delivered a speech telling the history that transpired 40 years ago at Little Rock Central High School that birthed what he calls the “Little Rock 9.” He shared personal experiences of his during this time frame when he was only eleven years of age and how his grandparents working in little store taught him that we are all equals regardless of race. The personal experiences of his were related to the subject manner in such a way to empower his message of acceptance of equality and how his grandparents would be pleased to see America today.

c) Bill Clinton continues to discuss the American people and praises them for the changes that have transpired over the years, constantly referencing those who made the sacrifice of innocence to begin this transition, the “Little Rock 9.” He discussed how he became Governor and how he invited the “Little Rock 9” to come and see the differences he has helped make since becoming Governor. The conclusion of his speech covets a patriotic Christian mentality that at the time inspired many.

II. Invention

a) Some ways I saw that former President Clinton used research and supporting ideas to build credibility was the constant referencing of the “Little Rock 9,” discussing his personal childhood experiences during that time that transpired just miles away, and his referencing of our modern day acceptance of other races in America as equals.

b) Former President used logos in his speech with a referencing manner of our historical problem with racial equality and segregation. The use of logic was very effective due to his personalization of the historical sight and relating the events to the modern people of the locale.

III. Organization

a) Former President Clinton organized his speech in a time sequence pattern. His analysis of his audience as well as the purpose and location played a big role in his success.

b) Aspects that struck me to be most interesting was his relating the experiences of historical figures, the “Little Rock 9,” to his own childhood to make it more personal for him to relate to his audience. One particular notation I made that possibly helped grab more attention of his audience was the repetitive use of the key phrase, “utterly alone.” This phrase was used to draw sympathy. Its repetition emphasized more than sympathy. It drew in empathy as well. Another notable aspect was Clinton’s ability to make an obvious mistake and rather than let it hinder his speech, he continued on. This shows the devotion to the topic by not becoming distracted over a typo. This occurred during his mention of the Pledge of Allegiance, where he says at 2:52 into the speech, “individual” rather than “indivisible.” The audience seemed to enjoy his speech and applauded his every word and transition.

IV. Style

a) His style was more of the relative nature. He was sharing a moment of history and how the people of Little Rock had changed over the last 40 years to emphasize his message.

b) Clinton maintained a timeline format within his speech. His references were personalized to the locale. This made his speech more insightful and personal for his audience.

V. Understanding/Memory

Clinton demonstrated preparation and expertise during his speech by showing how well he had memorized his speech and key points to make a more solid delivery of his speech. He demonstrated personal knowledge and experience which made his speech more effective to deliver his message.

VI. Delivery

Former President Clinton’s use of verbal and nonverbal strategies were apparent in his speech. He made constant hand gestures to emphasize a critical point in his speech. His tone changed throughout the speech to emphasize the emotions felt. This emphasis made the speech feel more personal to the president and related him to the audience making his delivery more meaningful and successful.

VII. References

http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/wjclintonlittlerocknine40th.htm

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About the Creator

W.S. Klass

I have a passion for writing. As a published author for nearly two decades, it pleases me to have a platform such as Vocal to share my works for free.

"I never apologize for who I am!"-W.S. Klass.

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