Forward!

The Obama campaign unveiled its new one-word slogan with this slick video. Last campaign it was “Change.” Now it’s “Forward.” Pundits noted that “Lean Forward” is the slogan for MSNBC. And Figaro remembers reading the Communist “Daily Forward” back in the early seventies. 

Still, we like “Forward.” It’s an example, more or less (though mostly less) of deliberative argument, which focuses on the future.  

We also love William F. Buckley’s definition of a conservative as someone who stands athwart history yelling “Stop.” While Obama supporters yell “Forward,” opponents will be looking at this administration’s policies yelling “Reverse!” 

But the election will be determined by those whose who haven’t yet shifted from neutral.

Comments

[Sam Eastman]

I'm surprised you didn't cover the latest flap over the Obama campaign claiming Romney wouldn't have killed Obama. What kind of rhetoric is that?

[Figaro]

Good question, Sam. I didn't cover it because it's rhetorically not that interesting. In my opinion it's a cheap shot that demeans a real accomplishment, and it probably didn't do Obama's re-election attempt any favors. So it's not exactly a device that Figaro would recommend.

[Susan]

What would you call the list of accomplishments at the end of the video? And did you find the list effective? Thanks

[Figaro]

The list would be covered under "Proof" in a Ciceronian oration, which comes before the "division"--dealing with anticipated objections--and the peroration, or ending. In this case, division and peroration are combined. With no objections!

[Erich Berger]

I'll give "Forward" a pass!