Body Language: Obama creates a sense of familiarity and emphasis through his body language. His pointing, wide gesturing, etc. helps to illustrate a point and pin point a specific piece of language.
American Dream: In discussing the difficulties his family faced, he lays common ground with his audience by asserting that his family also followed the American Dream. This also verifies his dependance, considering many people claim he is not American.
Historical References: This statement encompasses American pride, patriotism, and love for their country.
“Our pride is based on a very simple premise, summed up in a declaration made over two hundred years ago: We hold these trust to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. That is the true genius of America.”
Repetition: Obama uses repetition in such a way where his speech becomes harmonious when transmitting an idea. It also helps to create a fluid speech structure.
“John Kerry believes than in an America where…”
“John Kerry believes in independence…”
“John Kerry believes in constitutional freedom…”
“And John Kerry believes that in a dangerous world…”
Alliteration: Obama’s fluid speech is also attributed to his limited use of alliteration.
“Land of Lincoln”
“Jobs of the Jobless
“Homes to the Homeless”
Use of “We”: Words like “we” assimilates himself to the audience. Much like his use of the American Dream, he makes the audience feel similar to him.