The Rhetorical Strategy Behind Joe Biden's Use of 'Period' in Speeches
When former US President Joe Biden uses the word 'period' at the end of a sentence, it often serves a specific rhetorical function. This article aims to explore why and how he employs this particular technique.
Why Joe Biden uses 'Period'
Biden is known for concluding many of his sentences with the word 'period'. This is employed for several reasons:
Emphasizing Absolute Truth: The use of 'period' is often a way of reinforcing the absolute nature of a statement. By using this word, Biden may indicate his conviction in the statement as an irrefutable truth. This technique is frequently used when he wants to portray his position as the final word on the issue at hand.
Reinforcing Leadership: Biden likely believes that the employment of 'period' makes him sound more authoritative and in control. In a world where leadership often relies on assured and decisive language, this can be a powerful tool.
Polishing the Sentence: From a stylistic perspective, it is an old-fashioned technique to use 'period' as a way to emphasize the end of a sentence. It can lend a bit of charm or idiosyncrasy, and while it might not be widespread, it can make Biden's speeches more engaging for some audiences.
A Case in Point: The 'Period' Bar Gesture
To illustrate the impact of this technique, consider a humorous anecdote:
A moderate, a progressive, and a democratic socialist walk into a bar. The bartender asks: 'Hey Joe, what'll you have?' Joe answers: 'I don’t drink. Period.'
In this scenario, Biden's use of 'period' further emphasizes his refusal to consume alcohol, suggesting finality and decisiveness in his stance. It's a charming and personal idiosyncrasy that doesn't necessarily bother most people, as it can often evoke a sense of familiarity or humor.
The Modern Perspective on Biden's Rhetorical Technique
While Biden's use of 'period' may serve certain rhetorical purposes, it is worth considering the broader context of contemporary communication. Today, the attitude of many leaders is to listen to multiple perspectives and construct their own arguments, rather than preemptively shutting down others.
As Steven Kravitz, a communication expert, notes, 'Sentencing with "period" may once have been perceived as a sign of strength, but it risks appearing dogmatic and closed-minded in today’s open discourse.' The modern approach to rhetoric is one of inclusivity and dialogue, where multiple viewpoints are encouraged and respected, rather than preemptively silenced.
Biden's frequent use of 'period' can be seen as a reminder of an older generation's communication style, one that valued decisiveness and authority over nuanced engagement. However, in a rapidly evolving media landscape, this style may not be as effective in the present.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joe Biden's frequent use of 'period' in his speeches serves a variety of rhetorical functions. While it might emphasize the absolute nature of his statements or reinforce his leadership, it also carries a potential risk of appearing dogmatic. Understanding this technique is crucial for both appreciating Biden's communication style and evaluating its effectiveness in the current discourse.