In 3–5 sentences, explain how the speaker’s word choice and the relationships among words in the paragraph beginning with “My friends, I must say to you …” and ending with “... cup of coffee at a lunch counter.” produce a specific tone.

(4 points)

1 answer

In the paragraph beginning with “My friends, I must say to you ...,” the speaker’s word choice creates a tone of urgency and directness, emphasizing camaraderie and collective action. Phrases like “I must say to you” convey a sense of importance and compel the audience to listen, while the inclusive term “my friends” fosters a sense of community and shared experience. The contrasting imagery between the weighty social issues discussed and the mundane act of “having a cup of coffee at a lunch counter” further enhances the tone by highlighting the stark reality of inequality, evoking both empathy and a call to action. This combination of language and relational dynamics evokes a powerful emotional response that underscores the seriousness of the message.