Question

select the correct answer. read these sentences from mandela’s inaugural address. we would also like to pay tribute to our security forces, in all their ranks, for the distinguished role they have played in securing our first democratic elections and the transition to democracy, from blood - thirsty forces which still refuse to see the light. the time for the healing of the wounds has come. the moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. the time to build is upon us. how do mandela’s language choices reinforce his purpose here? a. he repeats complicated concepts to establish his credibility. b. he repeats his beliefs to ensure that the people will forget the past. c. he uses short sentences to make an appeal to simpler times. d. he repeats short sentences to highlight the critical nature of the moment.

Explanation:

• Option A: The sentences don't use complicated concepts for credibility, so A is wrong.
• Option B: The repetition isn't to make people forget the past; the context is about the present moment of transition, so B is wrong.
• Option C: The sentences aren't about appealing to simpler times; they focus on the current moment of action (healing, building, etc.), so C is wrong.
• Option D: Mandela uses short sentences like "The time for... has come", "The moment to... has come", "The time to build is upon us" to emphasize the urgency and critical nature of the current moment (healing wounds, bridging divides, building). This repetition of short sentence structure highlights the importance of acting now.

Answer:

D. He repeats short sentences to highlight the critical nature of the moment.