Here is another example of using multimedia to look more closely at President Obama’s speech on Afghanistan. As a refresher, Wordle is a free website that creates “beautiful word clouds” out of any body of text, with words appearing larger if used more frequently. Please find the graphic and analysis below.
- No surprises on the most visible themes (not in order): Afghan/Afghanistan, America/American(s), country, government; al Qaeda, Taliban, war, security, forces, troops.
- One modal verb appears 16 times stands out from the major themes: “must”. This is indicative of Obama’s obligatory, insisting tone.
- Another group of words speak of unity, prominently featured in the president’s remarks: one, people, nation, home, effort. Though not included in the cloud, “we” and “our” were spoken 106 times combined.
- Unlike last time, Obama does not emphasize al Qaeda’s leader, members or actions. 9/11, terrorist(s), Osama bin Laden, attacks – all were mentioned less than five times. So was the supposed buzz word, “responsible/responsibility”.
- Pakistan and Iraq were downplayed as well, with only three times each.
What did you find interesting? What was highlighted or omitted?
Now that Politico Watch is back in full swing, look for more coverage of political events and analysis of pages, with a new Page Watch coming soon.
