The Stylistic Choices of John Adams

    Language is infinitely complex, altering throughout time. More antiquated writings are not as easily comprehended, thus requiring more focus. However, one should not allow the diction and syntax to become so consuming that they take away from the actual content of the message itself. What makes the material so intricate is its peculiarity. An unruly display of capitalization, and structure creates special emphasis. John Adam's letter to his wife Abigail during the Revolutionary war is no exception.
    While fighting for liberty in the midst of war, founding father John Adams receives a series of concerns from his wife Abigail. She pleads for John to remember of the ladies, and warns him that "all Men would become tyrants if they could" (paragraph 9). With unlimited power possessed by the husbands, Abigail states that the women have no problem starting a revolution of their own in response to mistreatment and inequality. John replies, "Whenever Vanity, and Gaiety, a Love of Pomp and Dress, Furniture, Equipage, Buildings, great Company, expensive Diversions, and elegant Entertainments get the best of the Principles and Judgments of Men or Women there is no knowing where they will stop, nor into what Evils, natural, moral, or political, they will lead us" (paragraph 15). John Adams deconstructs the evils of power, and the effect it has on morality. He states that a "Love of Pomp" and "expensive Diversions" will take control of anyone's better judgment-- both men  and women.
     Within this run- on sentence, there is an emphasis. A long list of lavash items are recited vigorously, ensuring a sense of conviction. Words with connotation such as "Vanity", "Dress", and "Furniture" stand out in reader's mind, bringing thought focused upon riches, power, and glory. Random punctuation is seldom seen today in the English language. Mr. Adams manipulates these factors to show fervor towards the matter of discussion.
    I admire how John Adams writes in a fashion that embodies character. The stylistic choices are not intended to be poetic, however passion shines through beneath his diction and syntax. Although seemingly peculiar, the most messages can be discovered not within the actual text, but rather between the lines.