Kaylynn Marshall

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy apprehended that America desperately needed an

honest, hardworking, reliable leader to lift its citizens from the burden of war and poverty they

were currently suffered from. The purpose of Kennedys inaugural speech is to inform not only

U.S. citizens, but all people of the world of his goals; Kennedy pledged to form and keep strong

alliances, to help those struggling with poverty, and to work towards peace between Americas

enemies. With this speech, Kennedy hopes to inspire Americans to participate and to contribute

alongside him to create a more competitive nation militarily, socially, and economically.

Kennedy uses antithesis to contrast Americas past with his hopes for the future; in addition, he

uses chiasmus to evoke a sense of pride and to inspire Americans to partake in making the U.S.

grow and thrive in years to come.

John F. Kennedy repeatedly uses antithesis to express how he plans to direct America

towards a new path of prosperity. Kennedy uses antithesis to voice how his victory was not a

personal or selfish achievement, but a success for a nation. For example, he proclaims, We

observe today not a victory of a party, but a celebration of freedom--symbolizing an end as well

as a beginning--signifying renewal as well as change. Kennedy announces that under his

leadership America will have a new beginning brimful with change. Kennedy also explains his

intentions are not for popularity but for genuine improvement of the poor in huts and villages

suffering with poverty around the globe: [] not because we seek their votes, but because it is

right. Kennedys intentions are focused on bettering not only U.S. citizens, but also those who

arent able to help themselves; by establishing that his intentions are not for popularity, Kennedy

gains the trust and respect of citizens.

 President John F. Kennedy uses chiasmus in his inaugural address to evoke pride and to

inspire Americans to participate in the paving a new path for the future of America. Kennedy

proclaims he is an advocate for peace, however, he clarifies that peace is not a sign of weakness:

Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate. War is inevitable, yet

Kennedy has hopes of reaching a compromise with Americas enemies and uses antithesis to

inspire Americans to help reach a negotiation and take steps towards peace between America and

her enemies. Kennedy also uses chiasmus to instill pride in Americans for their country and also

to persuade them to invest their time and effort in creating this new America. As an example,

Kennedy states, And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for youask

what you can do for your country. By referring to America as their country, Kennedy gives the

citizens a personal connection to the matter, creating a greater chance the citizens will partake in

the makings of a stronger nation.

A president has a duty to help and benefit his citizens to help America prosper. In his

inaugural address, John F. Kennedy uses antithesis to clearly voice his ideas and goals and his

intentions to build a stronger country militarily, to create a more successful country

economically, and to make allies to improve the country socially. Kennedy uses chiasmus to

convince Americans to take on a role in the building of this better country, by drawing forth pride

and nationalism rom them. President John F. Kennedys brilliant use of rhetorical devices results

in a successful speech that gains him support and respect from American citizens and other

peoples around the world.