Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Speech Analysis

On April 23, 1995, William J. Clinton delivered the awe-inspiring speech “Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Address.” The speech was given in response to the detrimental bombing that occurred in Oklahoma City only four days prior. This presentation was delivered to the family, friends, and community of the victims. The speech is considered to be one of the top rhetoric speeches in American history, and it is deemed as such because of its beautiful array of literary devices and appeals present. At the time the speech was delivered Clinton was the President of the United States. In the speech, he lowers himself from this authoritative figure to relate to the American people. He hopes to connect with them by reminding them that just as they are regular …show more content…
As the speech begins he is sure to voice his sorrow in stating, “Today our nation joins with you in grief. We mourn with you. We share your hope against hope that some may still survive.” In keeping a tone of compassion on this monumental misfortune, he continues the speech by speaking on the hard working lives lost. “This terrible sin took the lives of our American family, innocent children in that building, only because their parents were trying to be good parents as well as good workers.” At the end of his speech, the inflection stays the same as religion is brought again to the attention of the audience. Clinton said, “...wounds take a long time to heal. But we must begin. Those who are lost now belong to God,” and I could not agree …show more content…
Clinton creates a syntax that gives the paper a particular rhythm unique to this speech. A combination of mostly longer sentences with very few short sentences it allows the paper to flow smoothly and gives a sense of ease perceptible to the audience. With this mixture of sentence length and sentence type Clinton achieved a continually fluid speech. The imagery created in the speech was expressed comprehensively and clearly. Clinton spoke to dispose of the vile forces the audience may feel to bring about peace. “I say, one thing we owe those who have sacrificed is the duty to purge ourselves of the dark forces which gave rise to this evil.” By presenting the evil as a dark force he creates a mental image to compare to his words. He also uses figurative language towards the end of the speech in using personification. “Those who trouble their own house will inherit the wind. Justice will prevail.” William created a beautiful speech full of many literary devices and appeals. He comforted the hearts of the audience after they suffered a tremendous loss and tragedy. After analyzing the speech thoroughly he emphasized that if we stood together the loss could be overcome, and he presents this theme clearly and concisely. It is easily recognized and understood why this speech is considered to be one of the top rhetoric speeches in American