THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK'S LETTER

Carlo Mauri

Daniele Sorrenti

This text is a formal letter sent by Jean-Claude Trichet and Mario Draghi. The addressee is the Italian Prime Minister.

The letter is divided in paragraphs, each of which play a precise role in the text:

1.       Background notes plus reason of writing.

a)      Italian bond market situation.

b)      The need of Italian government to take action with the purpose of facing the crisis

2.       Further background notes, thesis expressed as a request, criticism to insufficient Italian measures.

a)      Government summit of 21 July 2011.

b)      Urgent need for Italy to fulfill his promises.

c)       Steps Italy has taken are not sufficient.

3.       List of further steps to be taken.

1.       Competition increase

2.       Immediate and massive measures to ensure public finances’ sustainability

3.       Reorganization of public amministration

The letter ends with an exhortation to Italian Government to act quickly to fulfill the listed steps.

Language: use of exhortative language to underline the gravity of Italian’s economic situation, and the urgency to take measures.  This style makes the statements slightly intimidating.