Barack Obama's Inauguration Speech

Barack Obama’s inauguration speech is thirteen minutes long. He stands in attendance of nearly two million people at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., while billions more watch on television as he addresses our nation regarding his thoughts and visions for our country's future.

He speaks with firm concern of our nation’s problems regarding the economy, the housing troubles, and the war in Iraq. Displaying concern for problems in our employment, education and wasteful energy use, he also addresses rising issues within our society and subtly sways the audience's focus to holding the previous president responsible.

Reflecting back on the former President’s eight year term, he speaks indignantly of our country settling for less by referring to us as, "those who prefer leisure over work and seek only the pleasures of riches and fame." Although mildly put, he implies the strong truth within our spoiled society of today. With fidgety bodies and watchful eyes, the audience listens intently as the new President states in pathos, his concerns of our nation’s needs to remember how arduous our forefather’s labored in order to preserve and protect the constitution and to unite our country. He went on to remind the people of the battles that were won and lost; displaying concern regarding Americans not appreciating the sacrifices that have been made for our freedoms.

He recaps our countries cultural diversity, by explaining that we as a nation are of a patchwork heritage, and expressing that we as a whole need to embrace this diversity; not as a weakness but as a strength. He addresses his hopes that we might all come together, every race and religion, to make a stronger and more unified country.

Addressing the rising concerns with continuing issues in Iraq, he states that he will work to give the country back to its people and help Afghanistan find peace. Determination and a firm expression set the tone, as he follows with his position on terrorism. He emphasizes America’s opposition in compromising freedom. He reminds his audiences, of our country's will to be free. With unwavering resolute, he warnes against those individuals that entice, provoke or induce terror; stating that they will be defeated.

His message to the nation is solemn and articulate; one with restrained reprisal towards our former leaderships, his adherence to dedication in governing policy and its people, while conveying a humble yet confident stance as the first presidential elect of his race.
As with all inauguration speeches which are intended to convey leadership positions, promises to make better, and more hope for the future, Barack Obama's speech transmits to more then one implied audience. Here we see Obama touch every emotion from his audience, from those that oppose or favor him. We seldomly hear our President address all the crisis and issues we as a people encounter; the real issues we care about; the ones that affect our livelihood. We grasp his portrayal of angst and concern, hanging onto every word being left with nothing but hope.