It is often said that a pen is mightier than a sword. It is undeniable that mass communication in the form of books, magazines or newspapers has influenced the minds and thus actions of many. Hence, the clout that the pen wields warrants it to be a mightier weapon than a sword, which is sharp enough to pierce into the hearts and minds of people.
In fact, I think, a charismatic speaker with a pen in his hand is mightier than a light saber you find in Star Wars, a weapon that is more powerful than an ordinary sword. Quite recently, I was reminded of the power of mass communication, especially undertaken by an eloquent and passionate person with a flair for words, one like US president Barack Obama. I was moved by his idealistic optimism and passion for change to aid the people. Being idealistic may entail being unrealistic, but I felt that his idealistic optimism is refreshing, something different from our very own straitlaced, hard-talking politicians. Our local political election scene often displays a buffet of goodies or showcases a series of misfortunes that may befall the society. Once again, the difference in the way politicians in various countries run for election can be accounted for by the difference in culture. Sorry for the slight digression, but let us now return to my favourite mass communication professional, Obama.
Obama delivered promising hope, which is not simply motivating but convincing. I bought his promise, and so did millions of other people around the world. What about you? Many people have not seen concrete evidence of his capabilities in managing the nation’s economic, social and political problems but they believed. This belief was built up from months of watching and listening to Obama. His warm smile, sincere and amiable interaction with the grassroot leaders, civilians and opponents, his good track record and fantastic speeches laced with appropriate body language and intonations have contributed to an excellent first impression.
Honestly, this is my first time taking a closer look at US politics. My interest was the result of Obama’s gravitating charisma and fine speeches. Indeed, Obama holds a weapon that is mightier than a light saber in his hand.
I have made several controversial points that you (student, teacher or politician) may disagree with. For example, do you agree with my analogy? Do you think that mass communication by politicians in Singapore can be improved?
In fact, I think, a charismatic speaker with a pen in his hand is mightier than a light saber you find in Star Wars, a weapon that is more powerful than an ordinary sword. Quite recently, I was reminded of the power of mass communication, especially undertaken by an eloquent and passionate person with a flair for words, one like US president Barack Obama. I was moved by his idealistic optimism and passion for change to aid the people. Being idealistic may entail being unrealistic, but I felt that his idealistic optimism is refreshing, something different from our very own straitlaced, hard-talking politicians. Our local political election scene often displays a buffet of goodies or showcases a series of misfortunes that may befall the society. Once again, the difference in the way politicians in various countries run for election can be accounted for by the difference in culture. Sorry for the slight digression, but let us now return to my favourite mass communication professional, Obama.
Obama delivered promising hope, which is not simply motivating but convincing. I bought his promise, and so did millions of other people around the world. What about you? Many people have not seen concrete evidence of his capabilities in managing the nation’s economic, social and political problems but they believed. This belief was built up from months of watching and listening to Obama. His warm smile, sincere and amiable interaction with the grassroot leaders, civilians and opponents, his good track record and fantastic speeches laced with appropriate body language and intonations have contributed to an excellent first impression.
Honestly, this is my first time taking a closer look at US politics. My interest was the result of Obama’s gravitating charisma and fine speeches. Indeed, Obama holds a weapon that is mightier than a light saber in his hand.
I have made several controversial points that you (student, teacher or politician) may disagree with. For example, do you agree with my analogy? Do you think that mass communication by politicians in Singapore can be improved?
Obama's blog: http://www.myspace.com/barackobama
Hi ethel,
ReplyDeleteI think the style of our politicians is different than those in USA. Comparing the speeches between our PM Lee Hsien Loong and American president Barack Obama, is like comparing the presentation done by Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. PM Lee uses visuals on his national day rally to complement what he wants to say while President Obama is better at tapping on his personaliy to make his ideas endearing. No doubt, Mr Obama is able to unleash a kind of freshness in this otherwise depressing downturn,our PM is still able to carry his messages across. On whether the mass com in Singapore politicians should be improved, I think it is a good idea to make them more appealing and affable to the new generation. That will cost alot of money and effort and might be consider a waste of tax payer's money.
Nice blog entry and layout.
Hi ethel,
ReplyDeleteTruly, the presence of President Obama is indeed a refreshing sight in the politics scene. Like you, i was drawn more to US politics ever since Obama was elected as the present. He certainly shows a flair in the way he communicates, with much charisma in his speeches.
In the case of Singapore, it would be good if mass communication by the politicians can be improved. However, such an aim would perhaps take years, and like what Swee Guan mention, might even cost lots of money.
Cecilia
=]
Hi ethel,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that President Obama's election speeches were very inspiring. This is because he had injected hope into a nation that is burdened. His way of communication to the masses is definitely a far cry with the politicians in Singapore because of the pragmatism policy that our government adopts.
However, I also think that the way a politician delivers his speech actually depends on the situation of the nation. Singapore is very peaceful and hence Singaporeans are concerned more with the economy. However, America is different. It is a country that is burdened with violence and other issues. Hence, Mr Obama's way of delivering his speech had injected into the nation.