Question

We have triumphed in the effort to implant hope in the breasts of the millions of our people. We enter into a covenant that we shall build the society in which all South Africans, both black and white, will be able to walk tall, without any fear in their hearts, assured of their inalienable right to human dignity—a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world. We dedicate this day to all the heroes and heroines in this country and the rest of the world who sacrificed in many ways and surrendered their lives so that we could be free.Their dreams have become reality. Freedom is their reward.We are both humbled and elevated by the honour and privilege that you, the people of South Africa, have bestowed on us, as the first President of a united, democratic, non-racial and non-sexist South Africa to lead our country out of the valley of darkness.We understand it, still, that there is no easy road to freedom.We know it well that none of us acting alone can achieve success.We must therefore act together as a united people, for national reconciliation, for nation building, for the birth of a new world.

What is Mandela's tone in this section of his speech?
What words or phrases contribute to the tone?
Do the connotations of any words impact the tone?
How does Mandela's diction and syntax impact the tone in this section?

Answer 1

Nelson Mandela's tone in this section is one of hope and gratitude as he expresses his dedication to building a united South Africa. Words and phrases such as 'implant hope' and 'rainbow nation' contribute to the tone. Mandela's diction and syntax add a sense of formal and powerful conviction to the tone.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nelson Mandela's tone in this section of his speech is one of hope and gratitude, as he expresses his dedication to building a united, democratic, and non-racial South Africa. Words and phrases such as 'implant hope,' 'rainbow nation,' and 'heroes and heroines' contribute to the tone. The connotations of words like 'triumphed,' 'sacrificed,' and 'reward' impact the tone by highlighting the struggle for freedom and the ultimate achievement of that goal. Mandela's diction and syntax, including the use of parallel structure and balanced sentences, add a sense of formal and powerful conviction to the tone.