An analysis of I Have a Dream
This famous speech by Martin Luther King, Jr, in 1963 is an exampleof structured and impassioned rhetoric that is also carefully designed toelicit a specific response and to appeal to a wide ranging audience. Theuse of language and stylistic devices in the speech serve to enforce thecentral massage, which is repeated and built on throughout in differentcontexts. The central thrust of the speech lies in the demand for freedomand equality for African Americans or the 'Negro' population. This is acarefully structured and controlled argument that begins with the necessityto rectify the injustices of the past and then, logically and emotionally,builds on the legitimacy of this demand. This is enforced by a veiledthreat that the demand for equality is not to be taken lightly; which inturn is ameliorated by a reassurance that the speech is not a call toirresponsible actions. Lastly, the speech emphasizes that the issue offreedom and basic human rights for the Negro is related to the freedom ofall in a harmonious and united society. Throughout the speech the use of language is concise and controlledand aimed at evoking specific responses. I will focus on the use of
The sentiments and thoughts are subtle, legitimate andmorally laudable and as such would tend to allay fears of black supremacy. The analogy with musicand discord perfectly conveys the essence of the message of unity andbrotherhood within the speech and succeeds in allaying preconceptions andfears that might have been present in the hearts and minds of King'saudience. The thrust of the second half of the speech is one of reconciliationand a hope for the future. However, metaphor is just as strongly used to ensure thatreconciliation is not mistaken for weakness of intent at a final resolutionto inequality. On the other hand the metaphorical language is clear and simple anddramatic, which allows the meaning of the speech to be conveyed to andunderstood by the largest possible audience. The symbolism of 'quicksands'also plays on the suggested threat of what might happen if therepresentations of the black man are ignored. Other devices such as repetition and rhythm are also used to emphasizeKing's emotionally charged message . However, King iscareful not to present an overly assertive message - rather his tone andcontent always veers towards reconciliation rather than confrontation. This metaphor is effective in that it is veryaccessible and reinforces the central point easily. Light and dark and opposites are again used to express the intensity of theneed to rectify the present inequalities and injustices. King clearlystates the problem using expressive images and metaphor to illustrate hismeaning. While demanding a resolution to the injustices of the present situation, healso hoped for resolution. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one.
Common topics in this essay:
Proclamation Emancipation,
Negro York,
African Americans,
King Jr,
,
Negro Mississippi,
allay fears black,
mighty stream,
satisfied satisfied,
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freedom equality,
preconceptions fears,
throughout speech,
speech succeeds,
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sense justice,
black people,
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Acceptance Essays
