I Have a Dream...

“I Have A Dream…”

Presenter: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Date given: August 28, 1963

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs

Summary- The starting makes it clear that the focus of their movement is their peaceful fight for freedom of the colored race. He then mentions the non-realization of the hope of black people that was already promised by the founding fathers of America. The key documents like Declaration of Independence, Emaciation Proclamation are referred to show the gap between reality and promise. Dr. King then describes what needs to be done and what has to be avoided to bring about change. Martin Luther King then extensively makes use of examples, anecdotes to ensure that people from every walk of like, be it geography or occupation, are addressed.

In the last paragraph, he hopes that justice and faith would prevail and the country emerges united on the foundation of equality.

An attempt to evaluate “I have a dream…” turned out to be a learning experience by witnessing the proficient use of rhetoric and examples used to drive home the point. This speech came to be a defining moment in the American Civil Rights Movement.

Techniques identified which makes the speech stand out –

Location- The setting of the speech, at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, made for a tremendous impact on the audience and worked beautifully with the message he sought to convey.

Points impacting both mind and heart- In his opening paragraphs, Dr. King makes references to the Emancipation Proclamation, the Constitution, and Declaration of Independence. They give weight to his words and set the stage for the speech. He also quotes from the Bible, “My Country Tis of Thee,” to connect with the emotions of the public.

Ample use of metaphors and anecdotes- The speech didn’t turn boring at any time. Effective use of voice modulation, pauses and facts made for an insightful hearing. The metaphors and imagery evoked made the speech unique and impressionable.

For example, he describes the plight of African-Americans, “living on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.”

Dr. King, talks about cashing a check given to the blacks: “Instead of honoring the sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked “insufficient funds.” But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt.”

Utilize of quotations- He begins with the phrase “Five score years ago…” referring to Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address speech. He also refers to “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” which is a reference to the American Declaration of Independence.

Sharp ideas and use of contrast- Dr. King contrasts what is against the possible transformations

There is emphasis through repetition which provides a rhythm and flow, like

“I have a dream” is repeated in eight successive sentences and repeating “Let freedom ring”, “Now is the time” in the last paragraph.

Focus on action-  Dr. King, brings forth a sense of urgency, but not at the cost of violence or hatred. He dreams of a nation where his children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

The speech is not just an oratory masterpiece but also proved to be a turning point in the American Civil War, its historic importance cannot be over-emphasized. This speech, till date, stands proof on how we can all be inspired by the craft of speaking.

Speech Objectives

Content:

Structure - opening, body, conclusion

Support material

Interest

Achievement of pupose

Original thought or ideas

Preparation

Knowledge of topic

Relevance

Delivery

Voice, Flexibility, Volume, Articulation, Audibleness, Speaking Rate, Vocal pitch and variety.

Manner - (enthusiasm, confidence, sincerity, conviction).

Language (appropriateness, corrections)

Appearance, control of nerves, posture and gestures

Body movements, eye contact, & facial expressions

Use of notes and visual aids

This list prompts the evaluator to think about the ways the speaker has achieved his or her impact.

“Audacity of Hope

Presenter: Barack Obama

Date given: August 28, 1963

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs

Summary- The starting makes it clear that the focus of their movement is their peaceful fight for freedom of the colored race. He then mentions the non-realization of the hope of black people that was already promised by the founding fathers of America. The key documents like Declaration of Independence, Emaciation Proclamation are referred to show the gap between reality and promise. Dr. King then describes what needs to be done and what has to be avoided to bring about change. Martin Luther King then extensively makes use of examples, anecdotes to ensure that people from every walk of like, be it geography or occupation, are addressed.