Figurative Language present in JFK inaugural speech: Metaphor: One metaphor in John F. Kennedy's inaugural speech is, “those who foolishly sought power by riding the back of the tiger ended up inside.” John F. [ Kennedy uses this metaphor in his speech to create a stronger picture for his audience and to help them better understand how he feels dictatorship results. Overstatement: One example of overstatement present in John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Speech is, “Let both sides united to heed in all corners of the earth…” This is an instance of overstatement, because uniting in all corners of the world is not possible, therefore it is an overstatement. JFK uses this overstatement in order to reinforce his idea of uniting the world. There are no similes present in JFK’s Inaugural speech. Symbol: something used for or regarded as representing something else; a material object representing something, often something immaterial; emblem, token, or sign. John F. Kennedy states in his speech that today was a celebration of freedom symbolizing an end, as well as a new beginning. "a celebration of freedom—symbolizing an end, as well as a beginning—signifying renewal, as well as change." Irony: Irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. Irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. One major time that was ironic in Kennedy’s speech was that not long after the speech the Cuban Missile Crisis occurred. Also Kennedy’s Speech deals with a new beginning, yet so soon after his life ended. "we observe today not a victory of party, but a celebration of freedom—symbolizing an end, as well as a beginning ]