"Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country."
This statement is not literally true, as a citizen does have legitimate expectations of their country. However, it is a powerful metaphor that encapsulates the idea of civic responsibility and active citizenship. It encourages Americans to shift their perspective from expecting to be served by their government to actively contributing to the betterment of their nation. This metaphor resonated deeply with the American public and became a defining phrase of the Kennedy era.
Here's why it's considered a metaphor:
* It compares abstract ideas: It compares the passive expectation of receiving benefits from the government to the active act of giving service to the country.
* It uses figurative language: The phrase "ask not" is a rhetorical device that creates a sense of urgency and compels listeners to consider the message.
* It creates a powerful image: The image of citizens actively contributing to their country evokes a sense of unity and purpose.
This metaphor, along with others used in the speech, successfully conveyed Kennedy's vision for a more engaged and responsible citizenry, a message that continues to resonate with people today.