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How Does Kennedy Use Anaphora In Jfk Inaugural Address

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The President of the United States holds a crucial position in history. The person filling this position carries the responsibility of leading the United States in the right direction so that the country is able to progress and evolve into a stronger nation than before. With this responsibility comes an inevitable legacy that every president will leave with their nation. John F. Kennedy’s presidency--although cut short by his assassination-- is no exception. The rhetoric in Kennedy’s inaugural address, the photo of his inauguration, and the article, “Inside Kennedy’s Inauguration, 50 Years On,” work together to convey his legacy of hope. The article, “Inside Kennedy’s Inauguration, 50 Years On,” in concert with the photo of the inauguration …show more content…

Kennedy’s inaugural address signifies the legacy of hope that his presidency created. This is done through the use of anaphora and imagery. In Kennedy’s inauguration address, he uses anaphora to bring political parties together behind common goals. While describing his expectations for the nation during his presidency, he says, “Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us. Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms--and bring absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations” (Kennedy 3). The anaphora of “let both sides,” brings both Democrats and Republicans, two very different political groups, into one category. It brings the two together, implying that although, “the final success or failure” (3), of America lies in the hands of the country, if political parties are unified, it will ultimately lead to the success of the nation. At the end of the address, while Kennedy discusses his goal of unity, he says that, “The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it-- and the glow from that fire can truly light the world” (71). The connotation of the words, “light,” and, “glow,” is positive, and it can be interpreted in such a way that it could create an image of a brighter future. The prospect of there being “light,” in the nation as a result of Kennedy’s presidency and the unity it will bring creates hope for the future, furthering his

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