How does King respond being labeled an "extremist", and how does his use of the word "extremist" contribute to the tone of the text?

King responds to being called an extremist by noting that extremism merely means being devoted to a cause. He makes allusions to other extremists..... Abraham Lincoln and Jesus, and he speaks to those whose intent is to create something rather than destroy it. His use of the word serves to not only to admit that he is an extremist, but that he is proud to be one..... thus, invoking a tone of pride.