JAMB - Literature In English (2001 - No. 5)
'We have been asleep, Mr. Speaker, my fellow citizens; asleep in our dream of security! Asleep in our well-meaning, sportsmanlike way of wishing the other fellow well. Asleep in the false security of accepting all men of goodwill who would be free as men of honor.'
Ralph Ellison, Juneteenth.
The force of the speech above is sustained on.
delivery
musicality
repetition
oratory
Explanation
In the passage, the phrase "asleep" is repeated multiple times to emphasise the speaker's point. This repetition creates a rhythmic, almost hypnotic effect, reinforcing the idea that society has been complacent or unaware of the real dangers or challenges. The repeated use of "asleep" helps to underline the speaker's urgency and frustration, making the speech more powerful and impactful.
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