Professional Clip 01: Barack Obama, 2004 Democratic National Convention Keynote Address
Through a careful audience analysis, Barack Obama takes the pulse of his audience into account in structuring his speech. Obama uses antithesis, or setting off two
ideas in parallel opposition to each other, to evoke an emotional reaction. Using three parallel examples, also known as a triad, he overrules the stereotypical view of deeply polarized red and blue states, and powerfully illustrates his point that we are one country united, not divided by difference. He creates a strong sense of identification with the audience within an atmosphere of enthusiasm, energy, and inspiration.