ARGUMENTATIVE: In his "Second Inaugural Address," Lincoln acknowledges the horror of the Civil War, the human cost on both sides, and the damage the war has caused the nation. He also very clearly and powerfully takes a side. Write your own address to the nation in which you take a stand about an issue that you feel strongly about. As a part of building your case, demonstrate your grasp of both sides of the issue, but make a direct argument for your position. Think about your word choice and select words that will urgently, powerfully, and persuasively complement your message.