But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.

Lincoln uses parallelism in this excerpt to

acknowledge the limitations of the memorial ceremony.

criticize the audience for its disinterest in the war.

encourage soldiers to continue the fight for national unity.

emphasize the need for improved military strategy.