Political Speeches Analysis
Last week's collaboration with Sweden had a new and interesting dynamic. During this dialogue, only one of our usual four Swedish partners could be there. Because she was the only one, I think we four "Americans" deliberately went out of our way to initiate discussion and at the same time give her plenty of space and time to contribute as well. In a way, it forced us to take responsibility of the structure of the conference. This situation, coupled with the analysis of political speeches really made this the best collaboration so far. Mari, Alex, Kareem, and I were all shocked by Johanna's vehement denouncement of Bush's speech. While on one hand we four had found it to be overall a pretty decent speech, especially considering it was "A Bueech" (Bush Speech in Katrina language :D), she conversely found it completely inadequate and inappropriate. To her, his patriotism was overwhelming. She also felt that for someone who was leading a country into war, he was far too somber. However, on this side of the globe, the four of us thought that it was entirely necessary he seem completely serious and aware of the perils and pains America would face. Because so much of the country opposed the war, he could not expect his audience to be cheering and "pumped" about beginning a war.
With regards to the Swedish Prime Minister Reinfeldt's speech, Johanna found it completely normal and acceptable but we did not. We were appalled by his lack of "pc"ness and the way he did not even attempt to bridge the gap between his winning party and the losing party. There was no mention/expression of admiration for the other candidate that we have come to expect from American winners. In fact, we were shocked to learn that he had won by such a small margin considering how little attention he paid to the losing party.