Alma mater Quote by Sarah Vowell
![“Take for example the commencement address he [James Garfield] delivered at his alma mater Hiram College in the summer of 1880. ... The only thing stopping this address from turning into a slacker parable is the absence of the word 'dude'.” quote by Sarah Vowell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/966/sarah-vowell-2016_alma-mater_take-for-example-the-commencement-addres_2595051.jpg)
““Take for example the commencement address he [James Garfield] delivered at his alma mater Hiram College in the summer of 1880. ... The only thing stopping this address from turning into a slacker parable is the absence of the word 'dude'.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Commencement Address, James A. Garfield, Hiram College, 1880
Garfield's speech is notable for its earnest tone, lacking modern slang that would make it seem casual.
In simple terms: Garfield spoke seriously, without slang.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how language shapes perception.
Themes
history
oratory
culture
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
historical
oratory
When to use this quote
- academic ceremonies
- public speaking
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
public speaking
historical context
language evolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How does slang affect the seriousness of a message?
- Would a casual tone change audience reception?
A Different Perspective
Modern slang could alter the gravitas of historic speeches.
![“I cast people from right around me. I was at my alma mater. It's special to have most of the graduate students in it [and] one professor, because I feel like in terms of this school, I was one of the few students lucky enough to break into the art industry or the contemporary art world.” quote by Kalup Linzy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/71e/kalup-linzy-20386_alma-mater_i-cast-people-from-right-around-me-i-was_524503.jpg)
