Transitivity Analysis of Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech from the Perspective of Systemic Functional Grammar

This study investigates the use of transitivity processes in Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford commencement address, with the aim of examining both the types of processes employed and their functions in constructing meaning. Drawing on Systemic Functional Grammar (Halliday, 1985, 1994; Halliday & Matthiessen, 2014), the analysis focuses on the transitivity system as a framework for uncovering how Jobs construes his experiences and conveys inspirational messages. The findings reveal that Jobs dominantly used the material process (52.28%) to recount actions, achievements, and life events that emphasize agency and resilience. Relational processes (30.88%) were frequently employed to present universal truths and philosophical reflections, transforming personal stories into collective lessons. Mental processes (10.53%) revealed Jobs’ feelings, hopes, and reflections, which helped build emotional connection with the audience. The verbal process (3.16%) framed his speech as dialogue and guidance, while the behavioral process (1.75%) highlighted visible reflections. Finally, the existential process (1.40%) emphasized the urgency of life choices. Overall, this study demonstrates how Jobs’ strategic use of transitivity resources enabled him to balance narrative, reflection, and persuasion, making his address one of the most memorable commencement speeches of the 21st century.