I often tell the story on the air about how inspired I was by Mario Cuomo’s speech at the 1984 Democratic Convention. I was moved because I believed the speech conveyed the essence of the Democratic party.
Since this was before Al Gore invented the internet, I had to wait until Vital Speeches of the Day printed the speech. I was thrilled when I located it. I ensconced myself in a comfy chair and prepared to drink in the rhetorical greatness that no doubt awaited me.
And when I finally got a real look at it there was—nothing. The speech was air. Devoid of content. There was no soul or essence communicated. I still appreciated Cuomo’s soaring speechifying but couldn’t help but be disappointed at the nothingness conveyed.
Now I know why I was reminded of that experience. Barack Obama ripped it off. See for yourself.
Go here for one of Obama’s other recent speech rip offs.