Style of language

Abby Wambach’s commencement address “Make Failure Your Fuel” is largely an informal speech, which is not unusual for a commencement address where speakers are typically free to deliver it in their own personal way.

However, Wambach's is perhaps a bit more informal than most, especially because of her choice of words which includes very informal phrases such as “badass women” (l. 5), “freaking Little Red Riding Hood” (ll. 92-93), or “effing ball” (l. 316). The effect of the informal language is that it relaxes the atmosphere and makes the speaker more approachable and likable for the audience.

Regarding choice of pronouns, Wambach uses the first person singular to talk about her personal stories, but she also uses the first-person plural to address the audience, give advice, or conclude an idea: “…like we women had finally made it.” (l. 40). This has the effect of creating a feeling of unity between her and the audience, of showing them they are part of the same group.

Another feature of the language...