ROTFLOL
Thank you. Thank you very much. (deep, slow bows)
:-D
Heh. Just kidding.
I don't think the fact that there doesn't seem to be any great orators around is likely to be a new phenomenon. They tend to be so few and far between that every generation probably feels that they are without them-- otherwise, they wouldn't be as noticeable.
Also, I don't think it's necessarily the orators themselves, rather the importance of events lends strength and clarity to the particular oration. For example, President Bush is not someone I would consider to be a very eloquent speaker-- and yet, he's stepped up to the plate and delivered some fine words when the occasion warranted.
Another possible factor: outstanding oration is easier to spot when there's consensus on the subject matter. Very little of that at the moment, even just on our side of the debate.
Otherwise, I agree with your rant completely-- and it was excellently done, BTW!