Must: 8 Work:7
Together: 1 On: 16
Our: 69 Journey: 3
To: 71 Freedom: 3
Utilizing a combination of Wordle and Microsoft Word Count, I was able to delve into the themes of last week's Inaugural Address. In noticing how frequently President Obama uses a word, it becomes easier to pick out topics that the administration feels most strongly about.
Wordle will automatically pick out filler words -the, of, on, a, but- in order to paint a more accurate picture (literally) of what is actually being said. Since size equates to usage, the most widely employed "relevant" words are therefore must, people, time, freedom, American, and journey, among a few others.
Using this information, it becomes quicker and easier to decipher what exactly Obama is trying to say with his second and final Inaugural Address.
What sets this speech apart from others similar in intent is its reliance on the word "must." An obvious rhetorical strategy, this utilization presents a sense of urgency throughout the entire speech. Rather than outlining what he would like us to do, Obama phrases his ideas in a way that makes them seem like the only option. Although very clearly a black-or-white fallacy, the President is successful in playing up the importance of sticking to the plan he has outlined for us in order to bring this country where it needs to go.
The regularity with which the words our, together, and one can be found in the text offer up the clear path of action President Obama recommends in order to better our nation and ourselves. The road to prosperity is one of unity and agreement, not partisanship and greed. This phrasing is so heavily emphasized for a reason, and that reason is to promote cooperation both across the aisle and between neighbors and friends. As for whether or not these ideals come to fruition, check back in four years.
