Any word that seems to evoke an emotional response can be
considered a charged word. JFK uses many rhetorical devices, but these planned "charged"
words directly address the various audiences to whom he
speaks.
To the allies, after the war and in the midst of a
cold war, he uses the words "united" and "divided" in different sentences each of these
demonstrate that there is no middle ground and they must proceed together for the
interests of all. This attempts to generate unity.
To
mankind, particularly Americankind, he notes the power we possess. He uses our ability
to "abolish" and gives it two different connotations. It could be used positively if we
exercise human compassion and abolish "poverty", or negatively if we extinguish "human
life".
He repeatedly uses freedom, pledge,
liberty, and revolution. Each of these words have stood
the test of time for American patriots and they evoke a sense of national pride as well
as favor in humankind.
He also uses
citizens and mankind to evoke a sense of unity
among Americans and among peoples worldwide. His message is one of cooperation and he
works to ensure their buy-in with this type of language.
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