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History, Future Prospects and Values in America
History, Future Prospects and Values in America
3. Language: The language used is candid and reflects the daily realities of life in the
neighborhood, including colloquial speech and formal interviews.
4. Story: One story recounts a young boy named Todd witnessing the shooting of his
friend, highlighting the pervasive violence in the community and its impact on
residents.
5. Development: Despite efforts to address issues like crime and poverty, the
neighborhood appears to struggle with systemic problems and a lack of
improvement.
6. LeAlan's Future and Concerns: LeAlan faces uncertainties about his future due to
poverty, violence, and limited opportunities. He worries about safety, education, and
breaking free from the cycle of poverty. Despite challenges, he remains determined
to create a better future.
Repetition is a key rhetorical device used by Obama, particularly in his repetition of the
phrase "American Dream." This repetition reinforces the central theme of hope and
opportunity for all Americans, regardless of race or socioeconomic status. Additionally,
Obama employs vivid imagery and storytelling techniques to create a compelling narrative of
struggle and resilience, drawing parallels between his own experiences and those of
everyday Americans.
In terms of Toulmin's elements for speeches, Obama effectively establishes his claim - that
the American Dream is worth fighting for - and supports it with evidence from personal
anecdotes, statistical data, and appeals to common values. He also anticipates and
addresses potential counterarguments, acknowledging the challenges facing the nation
while offering a vision of unity and progress.
The impact of a speech like Obama's extends beyond its immediate audience, shaping
public discourse and influencing policy decisions. Reflecting on his presidency, Obama
made significant strides in advancing key aspects of his American Dream agenda, such as
healthcare reform, economic recovery, and education initiatives. However, political gridlock
and entrenched interests limited the extent to which Obama could fulfill all of his promises.
Despite contemporary challenges such as income inequality, racial injustice, and political
polarization, Obama's speech serves as a reminder that the American Dream is an ongoing
aspiration that requires collective effort and commitment to achieve.
D) Relating the Material to the Theme "America and The American Dream":
Both "One Sunday Morning" and Obama's speech reflect the enduring quest for the
American Dream and the obstacles that stand in its way. In "One Sunday Morning," Hughes
exposes the harsh realities of racial discrimination and economic inequality, highlighting the
resilience of individuals who refuse to be defined by society's prejudices. Similarly, Obama's
speech emphasizes the importance of reclaiming the American Dream from those who
would seek to undermine it, advocating for policies that promote equality, opportunity, and
social justice.
In comparing these texts to other works addressing similar themes, such as Martin Luther
King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech or F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," we see a
recurring motif of hope and aspiration amidst adversity. Despite the challenges and setbacks
faced by characters and real-life figures alike, the pursuit of the American Dream remains a
defining feature of the American experience.
Drawing from personal knowledge and experiences, one can see how the concept of the
American Dream has evolved over time, encompassing not only material success but also
notions of freedom, equality, and fulfillment. However, the persistence of systemic
inequalities and social injustices underscores the ongoing struggle to fully realize the
promise of the American Dream for all citizens.