Rhetorical Analysis Of Oklahoma Bombing Address

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William Jefferson Clinton - Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Prayer Service Address On April 19th, 1995, disaster struck, making William J. Clinton’s words of support, crucial. William was elected President of the United States on November 3rd, 1992, and served 2 terms. His speech, Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Prayer Service, was speaking to America, along with the families who had lost so much. This eulogy commemorated the bombing in Oklahoma City, where 168 people lost their lives in the attack conspired by Timothy McVeigh, who was sentenced to death, and Terry Nichols, who was sentenced to life in prison. Consequently, this was considered America's most devastating terrorist attack until 9/11. Clinton’s speech starts out by establishing ethos, he states “I am honored to be here today to represent the American people. But I have to tell you that Hillary and I also come as parents, as husband and wife, as people who were your neighbors for some of the best years of our lives” (Clinton). By making it clear that he was still apart of a normal family, he uses a form of manipulation to create a deeper connection with his audience. Similarly, Clinton also uses formal diction. Words such as “endured”, “suffered”, “sacrificed”, and “unimaginable” all shape the way the listener feels. He wants everyone to mourn with him, along with the …show more content…
Clinton’s words of support on April 19th, 1995 were very important, not only for the state of Oklahoma, but the rest of America. He established credible ethos right from the start by stating he was not only the president, but also a parent, husband, and neighbor. Clinton’s story of a widowed mother, was a source the audience could better relate to. By using the story, his speech created not only a sympathetic tone, but an inspirational one, giving it an emotional appeal that moved the American people. His use of diction, figurative language, and parallel structure all contributed to the way America moved on from the tragic
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Rhetorical Analysis Of Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Address

In his speech, “Oklahoma Bombing Memorial Address” former president Bill Clinton suggests that we all feel a common grief but we should not allow themselves to be consumed by it but instead unit through the hardship. First, Clinton characterizes himself as a fellow citizen so he can relate to the people who were affected by the bombing. He claims that he is a parent and just like the people that are mourning he is also mourning for the people the bombing victims. He then supports his claim by using…

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