Oratorical Perfection: Barack Obama

I hesitated in blogging about Obama’s speeches, because as a self-proclaimed “speech critic,” he is above critique. His Democratic National Convention speech in 2004 is oratorical brilliance. Perfectly written, perfectly delivered.

Obama has often been criticized by his opponents as someone who speaks well but doesn’t take action. However, that minimizes the importance of rhetorical capabilities to ignite action and spur support through words alone. Speaking out IS action, in and of itself. Martin Luther King, Jr. is an example of what can be accomplished through words, delivered well and at the right time. While campaigning, Hillary Clinton suggested that while MLK Jr was a brilliant speaker, it took Lyndon Johnson to effect change. However, would LBJ have pushed for change if MLK hadn’t spurred the movement? If MLK, Jr. hadn’t been so persuasive and inspiring, would the movement have risen to the attention of the President and aroused such a fury of support that action was demanded?

Obama has the rhetorical ability to effect change, too. I am so grateful that someone with such persuasive speaking abilities is inspiring action that I want to be a part of.

Many members of the media have compared Obama’s speaking ability to others who have rallied crowds and supporters, even including Hitler. The comparison stands that both are/were skilled at delivering speeches. However, the distinguishing features between the two are vast. We are lucky, as a nation, to have a leader who is able to inspire action for the greater good. With the turmoil we are experiencing now, the atmosphere is such that any leader with a vision and skill at delivering it would be welcomed, much as Hitler was welcomed by Germany when they were undergoing a state of national crisis. However, it is our good fortune that the leader that has arisen out of today’s chaos is not merely a persuasive speaker, but one repeatedly described by even his opposition as likeable, nice, and hopeful for a brighter future. And his vision for the future is one that unites not just red and blue states, but would improve our relations with other countries, as well.

In speeches, as in life, timing is everything. Barack Obama’s time is now.