When it comes to speeches, there are two main views the audience can adopt: for or against what is being said. That is why it is no surprise that some republicans say, that President Obama "gave the most Bush-like speech of his presidency," whereas U.S. News writes, "The president's landmark speech accepting the Nobel Peace Prize was a classic Obama address."
I say it's both.
President Obama's style and personality in this speech embrace his usual tone and character. His words seem practiced but not overly rehearsed. He knows what he wants to say, so he is confident in his words. He makes eye contact with the audience and alludes "to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. . .freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from fear, and freedom from want--come from FDR's Four Freedoms, first enunciated in the conclusion to his 1941 State of the Union address," says U.S. News. This citing of past addresses strengthens his credibility as the revered speech writer he is. For these reasons, I agree with U.S. News; it was a classic Obama address.
However, at times when President Obama addresses issues of war and national defense in this speech, he doesn't seem to have a clear-cut plan to solve the fighting issues--hence, Bush Like. President Obama talks of difficult challenges our nation faces, but he doesn't have the ready-made solutions that he may have had during his candidacy.
Despite the renowned reputation that President Obama has as a speechwriter, his speeches need to be more clearly his style than this Nobel Peace Prize acceptance. If others can compare him to a person whose style of speech giving is so unlike his, whether they mean it positively or negatively, something needs to change.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The Commencement Speech
Mary Beth Marklein of USA Today says, "Of the 700 or so commencement speeches. . .only about one in 20 "is really inspiring..." So how do leaders, like Scott, prepare to deliver a winning speech?
Marklein gives eight tips for an effective speech. She says:
1. Inspire us … but lose the clichés.
2. Talk about yourself … but make it meaningful to us.
3. Make us laugh … but leave stand-up routines to the pros.
4. Practice … but don't sound practiced.
5. Make us think … but don't make us seethe.
6. Do your homework … because details matter.
7. Hope for a sunny day … but even then, have pity.
8. Finally, keep it short. Period.
These tips sound simple, but they are often forgotten. Clichés slip into everyday life, making messages less meaningful. People who try too hard to be funny are not taken seriously; humor should not be forced and neither should a good speech. It should feel natural. Speeches can inspire thinking through the detail that is presented. Be clear, but don't spoon feed your audience. In the end, none of these keys will matter if the lesson is so long that the listeners lose interest. Brevity is key.
Watch Steve Jobs' 2005 address to the graduates at Stanford University. This speech was first on USA Today's top 10 commencement speeches list.
Jobs' message is meaningful and he follows many of the eight tips from above. Early on he says that he will cover stories from his life: "That's it; just three stories." He understands the principal of brevity, which is different than short.
He tells a group of college graduates that dropping out of college was the best thing that ever happened to him. The irony behind this grabs interest. It opens the door for him to inspire his audience.
Jobs impressive message, which is the basis for its making the top ten speeches list, outshines his rather poor delivery of that message. He rarely looks at his audience, and he reads most of his speech. For a truly winning speech, he needs a better balance of delivery and message.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Barack Obama's Inaugural Address
As a speech that only occurs every four years, the Inaugural address must be memorable. As seen above from the Jan. 20, 2009 Inauguration of Presedin't Barack Obama, a speech of this magnitude has the potential to move millions of people.
One thing that is particularly winning about this presidential address is President Obama's awareness of audience. As the first African-American president in this nation's history, he has the choice to be as proud or as humble as he chooses. He describes himself as, "humbled," "grateful," and "mindful." These subtly, powerful words stand out, assuring the public of it's choice to select Mr. Obama as it's president.
President Obama discusses human equality--a topic of import since the founding of this country. He says, "All are equal. All are Free. All deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness. It's as if he's explaining, to those who were against his candidacy, his necessary right to be president, to pursue whatever it is make him most happy. He says this honestly but not apologetically, which is important to all speeches.
In this speech, President Obama confronts current issues. He discusses healthcare, a poor economy that is weakened due to "greed and irresponsibility on the part of some." This forward manner in his speech suggests a forward approch to solving problems.
There is more meaning behind his words than what is said aloud. All speechwriters should remember this. You're saying more than you realize.
"On this day," Obama continues, "We gather because we have chosen hope over fear." He is America's choice for hope.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Does Speech Writing Pay?
I quiz students, "What about speech writing would interest you?"
The same questions comes up time after time, "Can you live off speech writing alone?" or "Is there any money in speech writing?" They have with multiple versions of the same question: "What about the money?"
Well, how much do you want to make? I checked a speech writers' average salary on PayScale.com, and it suggested that speech writers make anywhere from $37,000 up to $139,000, depending on how good they are, how many years they have worked, who their past clients are, and how their overall reputation looks.
Just as with any career, whether or not you can make it as a professional speech writer depends on how good you are. Is your work high in demand? Is there someone else who does a better job for cheaper? Are you good enough that you can expect to be paid well. How long have you been in the business?
All of these questions factor together to form a question all speech writers should ask themselves, "How dispensable am I?" If every answer to this question is negative, chances are, you either won't make it as a speech writer, or you had better do something to make yourself a higher necessity. Become indispensable.
But how is this done?
William McGurn, one of President Bush's speechwriters, provides a model for fellow speechwriters to consider. At the time that McGurn replaced Michael Gerson as the President's head speechwriter, he left the Wall Street Journal as chief editorial writer. He had a broad range of skills; he was marketable.
"But 'we don't always set the agenda,' " says McGurn in an interview back in 2006. "'We're not in a vacuum....We have to respond to whatever's in the news, regardless of what we'd rather be talking about.'"
Flexibility, McGurn seems to be saying, is a necessary trait a speechwriter must master. He also talks about the long hours that speech writers pull: 6:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. is normal.
Upcoming speechwriters must be diversified, flexible, and devoted in order to make it as a speechwriter.
The same questions comes up time after time, "Can you live off speech writing alone?" or "Is there any money in speech writing?" They have with multiple versions of the same question: "What about the money?"
Well, how much do you want to make? I checked a speech writers' average salary on PayScale.com, and it suggested that speech writers make anywhere from $37,000 up to $139,000, depending on how good they are, how many years they have worked, who their past clients are, and how their overall reputation looks.
Just as with any career, whether or not you can make it as a professional speech writer depends on how good you are. Is your work high in demand? Is there someone else who does a better job for cheaper? Are you good enough that you can expect to be paid well. How long have you been in the business?
All of these questions factor together to form a question all speech writers should ask themselves, "How dispensable am I?" If every answer to this question is negative, chances are, you either won't make it as a speech writer, or you had better do something to make yourself a higher necessity. Become indispensable.
But how is this done?
William McGurn, one of President Bush's speechwriters, provides a model for fellow speechwriters to consider. At the time that McGurn replaced Michael Gerson as the President's head speechwriter, he left the Wall Street Journal as chief editorial writer. He had a broad range of skills; he was marketable."But 'we don't always set the agenda,' " says McGurn in an interview back in 2006. "'We're not in a vacuum....We have to respond to whatever's in the news, regardless of what we'd rather be talking about.'"
Flexibility, McGurn seems to be saying, is a necessary trait a speechwriter must master. He also talks about the long hours that speech writers pull: 6:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. is normal.
Upcoming speechwriters must be diversified, flexible, and devoted in order to make it as a speechwriter.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Writer's Block
beesham tweets, "RT: @FusionPR: How to Promote Your Blog and Keep it Fresh with Content http://blog.fusionpr.com/?p=527."
I follow her link and then follow that link till I land on Paul's blog post, Overcoming Blogger’s Block.
As I read this, I wonder, "Does everybody get writer's block? If I can't think up material for a blog, is it possible that speech writers struggle writing speeches from time to time? If so, how do we overcome this?"
I have a few suggestions. Some even relate back to Paul's blog.
1. Don't just choose a topic, choose one about which you are passionate. If you don't care about what you're saying, why should anybody else? You may be asking, "What happens if I really don't care about what I'm saying, but I have to prepare this speech for my job, my client, my class, or my sister's wedding?" The truth is, there is really no way out of these types speeches, and they have to matter. That is, they have to matter to someone. If you don't care about your topic ask yourself, "Why might this topic matter to my audience?" Try pretending you are passionate about the topic. Study it. Talk to people who have a passion for what you are writing. Maybe you will at least gain appreciation for your subject matter. Above all, develop enough passion that you can at least deliver a winning speech.
2. Discuss possible speech ideas. In 18th century Britain, some of history's most famous authors, Jonathan Swift, Alaxander Pope, and John Gay, were members of the Scriblerus Club. This club was made up of a group of authors who gathered to intellectualize. It was through this club that Johnathan Swift came up with his idea for his satire, Gullivere's Travels. Here, also, was John Gay encouraged to write his Beggar's Opera. Without a place to formulate these thoughts aloud and without people to accept or reject these ideas as good or bad, some of our greatest minds may never have produced such great work.3. Relax. Don't search so hard for that new idea. Let it search for you. Some of my best ideas have come to me in my sleep.
Overcoming writers block is a challenge for many. Bloggers, authors, and speech writers alike struggle to remain original, but it can and must be done.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Start Strong
First and last words resonate in the ear. They belong to the author of whatever speech, article, or blog post written. These sections give authority to the author.
The Speech-Writers.com Blog suggests otherwise. This blogger believes that every good speech begins with a quotation. They even provide two ready-made quotations that could be applied to a variety of speeches: "Winston Churchill said, ‘Never, no matter what the odds, never ever give in.’” and “‘If the horse is dead, it’s time to get off.’”
I disagree in every way with this post. Great speeches aren’t and never have been formed by repeating another person's thoughts.
How would Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I have a dream” speech have turned out if he would have said, “My grandpa had a dream.”
In all fairness to the a fore mentioned blogger, it is important to hook your listeners when preparing a speech. A profound quotation works better than a poorly developed original thought.
Overall, creativity and boldness hook readers. Very rarely will the over-utilized quote beginning suffice.
The Speech-Writers.com Blog suggests otherwise. This blogger believes that every good speech begins with a quotation. They even provide two ready-made quotations that could be applied to a variety of speeches: "Winston Churchill said, ‘Never, no matter what the odds, never ever give in.’” and “‘If the horse is dead, it’s time to get off.’”
I disagree in every way with this post. Great speeches aren’t and never have been formed by repeating another person's thoughts.
How would Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I have a dream” speech have turned out if he would have said, “My grandpa had a dream.”
In all fairness to the a fore mentioned blogger, it is important to hook your listeners when preparing a speech. A profound quotation works better than a poorly developed original thought.
Overall, creativity and boldness hook readers. Very rarely will the over-utilized quote beginning suffice.
Bland to Bold
In my 332 British Literature class, we may watch three PowerPoint presentations in a class hour. On days like this, it's difficult for my teacher to keep our interest.Lack of attention from students has become a horrible routine in too many classrooms. Why? The Washington Speechwriters Roundtable blog says, “One explanation—as Ruth Marcus of the Washington Post put it—is PowerPoint’s ‘seductive availability.’ It’s just too easy.”
PowerPoint is getting overused to the point that people are numb to it and its usefulness as a speech-giving aid.
This blog also quotes a “veteran of the presentation wars: ‘We groan when we have to attend a meeting with a slide deck as the star.’”
Anthony Storr said, “Originality implies being bold enough to go beyond accepted norms.” In our speech writing, we must be innovative, in our presentation of that speech, bold.
Why Give Speeches?
As I’ve written more and more posts for this blog, I’ve found myself asking one simple question. Why do people give speeches? I’ve considered, lately, the many type of speeches there are.
A handout on speeches states, “Most speeches invite audiences to react in one of three ways: feeling, thinking, or acting.”
Feeling? Most definitely. I think back to high school when my sister and I were particularly wrapped up in chick flicks. We were going to make a video that comprised only the “cute” speeches from all of our favorite films.
Noah’s famous speech from The Notebook was the first speech on our list: “So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me... everyday.”
In Moulin Rouge, Christian tries to convince Satin of a real love that exists outside the whore house. He says, “ But, a life without love, that's... terrible... No! Love is like oxygen!..Love is a many splendored thing. Love lifts us up where we belong. All you need is love!”
Why is it that these speeches attract us? They evoke emotion. They are given to make us feel.
As a college student, the type of speech I’m most familiar with is the college lecture. It is given to make us think, to help us learn.
I think these types of speeches are becoming less important because oftentimes, the classroom is becoming more interactive and less like a speech. Nonetheless, speeches to teach extend to religious forums, humanitarian promotion, and commercials on television.
I often picture Henry David Thoreau’s words from Walden in the form of a speech. His quotations are so memorable that many people quote them in speeches. “I went into the woods because I wished to live deliberately…” Thoreau says. This speech promotes action. Who wouldn’t, after hearing these words, wish to find out what’s important about life, front only its essential parts, and live as deliberately as Thoreau himself lived. Whether given to evoke emotion, promote thought, or ignite to action, speeches are unquestionably an important part of our current culture.
Monday, November 30, 2009
The First, too Often Last, Impression
In Mary Shelley’s novel, Frankenstein, Dr. Victor Frankenstein forms and breathes life into a creature whom he abandons moments after he sees “…the dull yellow eye of the creature open…”
An article entitled Making a Great First Impression suggests that it takes only about three seconds for someone to evaluate and form an opinion of another person. “In this short time, the other person forms an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanor, your mannerisms, and how you are dressed.”
I will relate an unfortunate, yet truthful account detailing the reality that people don’t wait to get to know other people before passing judgment on them.
It’s the first day of my second year at school. I sit in an over sized classroom in the Hart, the exercise building at BYU-Idaho. It’s 10:00 a.m. Class doesn’t start until 10:15, but two girls Andrea and Lindsay who got here early learn everybody’s names. They are the glue that first stuck this class together.
After waiting 15 minutes for class to start. Brother Haley finally strolls into the room. He is a larger gentleman with a cane. His forehead wrinkles with pain. I didn’t see this then.
“Hah, fit for life?” I laugh to myself, “good joke. Why didn’t this guy get out and run before he got so out of shape that he needed a cane?”
Moments later, my stomach churned like it does right after eating big greasy Philly cheese steak. My face flushes. Brother Haley relates to the class his multiple titles as coach of a state championship football team. He used to play to. He ran hard. He walked without a cane.
His active days were long gone, though. However, it wasn’t because he was lazy or had given up on the motto, “Fit for life.” Brother Haley had found, years previously, that he had a disease called Multiple Sclerosis, a disease in which human bones deteriorate and make it hard to walk.
I felt ashamed of my first impression but was glad that this shame motivated me to see beyond the initial idea that I had of this man who, more than anybody, would have been fit forever if he could have been.
I remember this story anytime I need to impress others. For speech givers facing an audience, look presentable and stay on topic, as previous blog posts have suggested. Smile yet be unique.
For those trying to land a job or pick up a date, be on time and remember that first impressions count.
I will relate an unfortunate, yet truthful account detailing the reality that people don’t wait to get to know other people before passing judgment on them.
It’s the first day of my second year at school. I sit in an over sized classroom in the Hart, the exercise building at BYU-Idaho. It’s 10:00 a.m. Class doesn’t start until 10:15, but two girls Andrea and Lindsay who got here early learn everybody’s names. They are the glue that first stuck this class together.
After waiting 15 minutes for class to start. Brother Haley finally strolls into the room. He is a larger gentleman with a cane. His forehead wrinkles with pain. I didn’t see this then.
Moments later, my stomach churned like it does right after eating big greasy Philly cheese steak. My face flushes. Brother Haley relates to the class his multiple titles as coach of a state championship football team. He used to play to. He ran hard. He walked without a cane.
His active days were long gone, though. However, it wasn’t because he was lazy or had given up on the motto, “Fit for life.” Brother Haley had found, years previously, that he had a disease called Multiple Sclerosis, a disease in which human bones deteriorate and make it hard to walk.
I felt ashamed of my first impression but was glad that this shame motivated me to see beyond the initial idea that I had of this man who, more than anybody, would have been fit forever if he could have been.
I remember this story anytime I need to impress others. For speech givers facing an audience, look presentable and stay on topic, as previous blog posts have suggested. Smile yet be unique.
For those trying to land a job or pick up a date, be on time and remember that first impressions count.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Post Sept. 11 Presidential Address
The first I chose to review was this post 9/11 address. Upon watching it, I found that President Bush's eyes never leave the same general area. It's as if he's reading the entire speech from a teleprompter. This is fine, however, good speech givers disguise this; blinking helps. Practiced speakers become familiar enough with the speech that a line from the teleprompter is enough to get them through several upcoming lines.
The possibility this speech being read could explain why several sentences seem a little choppy. Another good help for speech giving is to practice it before hand to make sure the sentences flow.
Body position is another thing that could help President Bush's speech delivery. His tense frame makes him seem nervous and unsure, almost, of what he is saying.
Why is it, though, with some of these weaknesses of delivery that President Bush's 9/11 address exhibits, was his popularity at an all time high? Why is it that despite a knack for public speaking I regard this speech as one of the most important our nation has received?
It all goes back to a famous quote my English professor at BYU-Idaho always said: "Content is key."
President Bush nails the content in this message, and that makes up for all the other areas that may be lacking in this area. He fronted an issue that needed to be faced straight on and immediately. He gave hope to America by showing its strengths and its resolve to overcome this trial.
He said, “A great people has been moved to defend a great nation. Terrorist attacks can shake the foundation of America’s biggest buildings, but they cannot shake the foundation of America…the brightest beacon for freedom.”
He continued by recognizing the brave servicemen who represented the “best of America.” He also presented a plan to protect the injured of our nation wherever they may be. He said that the American Economy would not shut down, but would be open for business the next day. He promised that the terrorists and all who harbored them would be sought out and punished similarly. His concluding plea that all Americans pray for our country tied up his organized plan, which factored into the nation’s being able to work through the September 11th tragedy. It is this same organized plan that makes this speech a king of content and, thus, worthwhile.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Practice Makes Perfect
In my interpersonal communications course last fall, we discussed ways to become better communicators. We also stressed the importance of being yourself--real and not fake. People always want to know how to improve their communication and stay true to their personalities. If people try new styles of communicating, is that betraying their original personalities. I say, "No way."
Life is a journey. People are all at different stages of that journey. Everyone is trying to find the real he/she that makes most sense and brings most happiness.
In class, we decided the best way to find your true form of communication is to practice many styles. If you see someone who seems particularly crafted at dealing with people, then mirror their actions. It may seem unnatural at first, but it gets to the point that you can mold it to yourself, until it becomes your own style of communication.
My roommate Sydney, for example, has always gotten on well with people. She just knows how to talk to them. She is very friendly, makes a point to remember names and tid-bits of information about the people she encounters, and smiles a lot. I'm horrible with names, so I decided first to try smiling when I talk to people. When people feel you enjoy being around them, as shown by a smile, they feel happier about being around you.
I think the same could be said for speeches. Blogger Nick Morgan speaks of some who are particularly good at speeches. (see http://publicwords.typepad.com/nickmorgan/2008/09/do-politicians-write-their-own-speeches.html) Ronald Reagan especially knew where he stood and how he wanted to communicate those beliefs.
President Obama also is known for his communication skills. What would it hurt to study out these politicians and the styles they choose to communicate through?
Life is a journey. People are all at different stages of that journey. Everyone is trying to find the real he/she that makes most sense and brings most happiness.
In class, we decided the best way to find your true form of communication is to practice many styles. If you see someone who seems particularly crafted at dealing with people, then mirror their actions. It may seem unnatural at first, but it gets to the point that you can mold it to yourself, until it becomes your own style of communication.
My roommate Sydney, for example, has always gotten on well with people. She just knows how to talk to them. She is very friendly, makes a point to remember names and tid-bits of information about the people she encounters, and smiles a lot. I'm horrible with names, so I decided first to try smiling when I talk to people. When people feel you enjoy being around them, as shown by a smile, they feel happier about being around you.
I think the same could be said for speeches. Blogger Nick Morgan speaks of some who are particularly good at speeches. (see http://publicwords.typepad.com/nickmorgan/2008/09/do-politicians-write-their-own-speeches.html) Ronald Reagan especially knew where he stood and how he wanted to communicate those beliefs.
President Obama also is known for his communication skills. What would it hurt to study out these politicians and the styles they choose to communicate through?
Narrow, Concise, Focus
Focus is key to speech writing.
Did you notice how warm it was for having snowed last week? I barely had to wear a jacket today.
Speaking of jackets, I bought a new one when I went shopping in Idaho falls last week. Its design consists of pink and black squares. The squares are small enough that they almost remind me of candy, a mix between Chiclets and and Starbursts.
Mentos are my favorite type of candy. They aren't as messy as chocolate, yet not as sour as Sour Patch Kids (another favorite), so I don't get mouth sores from them.
Overall, I hope this post is proof as to why a narrow focus, leading down to a particular point in a speech is important.
Did you notice how warm it was for having snowed last week? I barely had to wear a jacket today.
Speaking of jackets, I bought a new one when I went shopping in Idaho falls last week. Its design consists of pink and black squares. The squares are small enough that they almost remind me of candy, a mix between Chiclets and and Starbursts.
Mentos are my favorite type of candy. They aren't as messy as chocolate, yet not as sour as Sour Patch Kids (another favorite), so I don't get mouth sores from them.
Overall, I hope this post is proof as to why a narrow focus, leading down to a particular point in a speech is important.
A Lesson in Speech Delivery
A few weeks ago, this man, Ahmed Corbitt, held a forum on the BYU-Idaho campus. Students flooded in the building and squished next to one another on benches at least a half hour before the speech began. The whole student body was invited to attend.Throughout the hour I spent listening to Ahmed's scriptural basis to the ethical and professional tactics he practices in the world of public relations, I also noted a few things about the delivery of his speech.
First of all, he was aware of his audience. He knew that at a church school, students might wonder whether it's possible to be professionally successful while remaining religiously grounded and ethically sound.
Secondly, he dressed the part. While in front of the forum group, he wore a nice black suit and complimentary tie. When he taught my public relations class the next day, he relaxed, according to the vibes he received from his audience. He took his suit coat off. It's important that people giving speeches read the publics whom they address.
Finally, Ahmed's speech was animated. The inflections in his voice helped to emphasize critical points of his speech. Voice involvement is a good way to engage an audience. If a speech sounds boring, people will expect it to be boring and will turn the speaker off.
To those observing, Ahmed Corbitt taught much more than his professional practices at forum that day.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Rosana Rosanadana verses Gilda Radner--Who is the better communicator?
Now that you have seen my favorite of Gilda Radner's Saturday Night Live skits, what did you think? Does this constitute a good or bad speech delivery?
There are a few factors to be considered. First of which is, are we discussing Rosana Rosanadana or Gilda Radner's communication skills?
First of all, Rosana's "shout outs" at the beginning of a speech are unacceptable. It's not professional.
Secondly, it's important to stay on topic. Implying that the invitation to address the audience came at 6:30 that morning with less than twenty-four hours notice not only makes the association for which you are giving the speech look bad, it also turns people off to the idea of engaging fully in your seemingly unprepared message. Going off on tangents about neck boils and the cue tips heads embedded in bologna never really enhances the message of a speech, either.
Finally, Rosana's body language when giving a speech is kills her delivery. Gum is a poor habit of speech givers. Slouching looks sloppy. Speeding up the speaking rate during the really powerful parts of the speech really only shows a lack of control.
Gilda Radner, on the other hand, the woman playing Rosana Rosanadana, has to be an excellent speech giver. She knows all the rules to speeches, so she knows enough how to effectively break those rules to make a funny skit. She is animated, and uses her facial expressions to engage her crowd.
Theme's the Thing
reminded me of the importance of writing about one idea, having a central focus. I thought next of an experience I had while working at the BYU-Idaho writing center.
Sean, as I shall refer to him, came into the center for his first time. He hesitantly approached the check in desk and announced it was his first semester here and he wasn’t really sure how this was supposed to work. I hesitated too. I hadn’t completely finished my training, but we were busy. So, familiar with the Socratic Method or not, it was time for me to tutor a patron, alone.
I was horrible in that session. I couldn’t see a theme to his paper, anywhere, but I didn’t know what questions to ask to help him see that. I couldn’t just tell him what his theme could be; it’s against the center’s policy. Rather, he attempted to show me where his theme really came through in his writing. I regretfully informed him that his paper really didn’t start till the third page and that writers can improve their work by referring back to their theme in every paragraph. A narrow, reoccurring focus helps guide the readers.
He said unbelievingly, “Do you really think it’s possible to add your theme in every paragraph?”
“Well,” I said, unsure how to answer this because I had already breached communication by my un-Socratic ways, “If you do not rephrase the theme, the details you present should at least support and be relevant to the topic you have chosen to write about.”
This is true for every type of writing. A well-thought-out topic, threaded throughout the speech will simply reinforce the idea that a speech giver tries to portray to his audience. Repetition works.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Speech Tips: 5 Things Everyone Should Know
1. Delivery counts.
You may have prepared the most impressive words, but if you are fidgety or nervous, it counteracts the productivity of your message. Be confidant.
2. Looks matter.
For some reason, people trust attractive people more. If you don't have looks going for you, at least look presentable. Dress professionally. Shower.
3. Don't read your speech.
Be enough of an expert on the material that you can speak from your heart. Have a few note cards if you need a cue to guide you to your next point.
4. Talk about what matters.
If you don't believe what you say, you will have a hard time persuading others to believe that way too.
5. Be ethical.
If you always stay true to your moral and legal principals, you leave less in your life to regret. This goes for the tactics you take to persuade people to a particular belief.
You may have prepared the most impressive words, but if you are fidgety or nervous, it counteracts the productivity of your message. Be confidant.
2. Looks matter.
For some reason, people trust attractive people more. If you don't have looks going for you, at least look presentable. Dress professionally. Shower.
3. Don't read your speech.
Be enough of an expert on the material that you can speak from your heart. Have a few note cards if you need a cue to guide you to your next point.
4. Talk about what matters.
If you don't believe what you say, you will have a hard time persuading others to believe that way too.
5. Be ethical.
If you always stay true to your moral and legal principals, you leave less in your life to regret. This goes for the tactics you take to persuade people to a particular belief.
Writing for the Eye Vs. Writing for the Ear
Yesterday, I sat down in the quiet section of the library to begin a 30 page reading assignment from the book El Camino for my Hispanic literature class. One passage read as follows,
Daniel, el Mochuelo, tenia como un fuego muy vivo en la cabeza, una mezcla
rara de orgullo herido, vanidad despierta y desperacion. <adelante--se decia--/adelante--se>
Nadie sera capaz de hacer lo que tu hagas.>>
With my limited knowledge of the spanish language, this passage would almost have been impossible for me to understand had it not been writen down. Because it was written, however, I had the luxury of studying the words as many times as needed. I was also able to look up individual words in a spanish translator, which aided my understanding of the entire passage. Thanks to the written word, I learned that Daniel felt a mixture of pride, vanity, and desperation, he was told that nobody would be able to do what he could do.
Speech writing doesn't have the luxury of dictionaries and multiple glances at a message. Words written to be heard must be conscise. They must be specific and get directly to the point. "Fluff" has no place in a speech, and rarely in written work. Vocabulary should not be so difficult that a person feels he needs his dictionary in hand. People don't want to feel that they are listening to a speech given in Spanish or some other foreign language.
When it comes to speeches, Henry David Thoreau's advice works best: "Simplify, simplify, simplyfy."
Daniel, el Mochuelo, tenia como un fuego muy vivo en la cabeza, una mezcla
rara de orgullo herido, vanidad despierta y desperacion. <adelante--se decia--/adelante--se>
Nadie sera capaz de hacer lo que tu hagas.>>
With my limited knowledge of the spanish language, this passage would almost have been impossible for me to understand had it not been writen down. Because it was written, however, I had the luxury of studying the words as many times as needed. I was also able to look up individual words in a spanish translator, which aided my understanding of the entire passage. Thanks to the written word, I learned that Daniel felt a mixture of pride, vanity, and desperation, he was told that nobody would be able to do what he could do.
Speech writing doesn't have the luxury of dictionaries and multiple glances at a message. Words written to be heard must be conscise. They must be specific and get directly to the point. "Fluff" has no place in a speech, and rarely in written work. Vocabulary should not be so difficult that a person feels he needs his dictionary in hand. People don't want to feel that they are listening to a speech given in Spanish or some other foreign language.
When it comes to speeches, Henry David Thoreau's advice works best: "Simplify, simplify, simplyfy."
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Persuasion Factor
"To be, or not to be..." "Fourscore and seven years ago..." "I have a dream..." Why is it that more than half of the Americans who hear these popular phrases would probably be able to continue on with more of these speeches? What is it that makes these speeches by William Shakespeare, Abraham Lincoln, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so memorable?
First of all, speeches are often given in an effort to persuade or confirm people's beliefs on a certain certain issue. The ideas behind a well-written speech help to form attitudes, which are the basis of opinions. When strong enough, these opinions drive people to act for the betterment of their cause.
The problem is it is difficult to sway opinion, especially those that are deeply rooted. People resist change; however, it is easier to influence an opinion if people don't feel that they are being asked to change their standpoint on an issue as a whole but, rather, an aspect of that issue.
Speeches can better persuade people when they appeal to certain human emotions. A well-written speech may be personal. In this case, the words are directed at a person's emotional nature. People like to feel as if they are individuals and are important to the social structure. This is, perhaps, the most effective form of persuasion. Pointing out how "your" views on this issue are important tends to drop a sense of responsibility into the lap of those listening. They feel more willing to take a stance on a matter.
A persuasive speech might appeal to a person's cultural, educational, or religious background. This helps people to feel connected, which generally helps these groups to unify and be similar in their beliefs.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech effectively employs a personal appeal to all those who have kids. His words ring true from a racial perspective, not one race but all races who were tired of discrimination.
http://www.americanrhetoric.com/top100speechesall.html
First of all, speeches are often given in an effort to persuade or confirm people's beliefs on a certain certain issue. The ideas behind a well-written speech help to form attitudes, which are the basis of opinions. When strong enough, these opinions drive people to act for the betterment of their cause.
The problem is it is difficult to sway opinion, especially those that are deeply rooted. People resist change; however, it is easier to influence an opinion if people don't feel that they are being asked to change their standpoint on an issue as a whole but, rather, an aspect of that issue.
Speeches can better persuade people when they appeal to certain human emotions. A well-written speech may be personal. In this case, the words are directed at a person's emotional nature. People like to feel as if they are individuals and are important to the social structure. This is, perhaps, the most effective form of persuasion. Pointing out how "your" views on this issue are important tends to drop a sense of responsibility into the lap of those listening. They feel more willing to take a stance on a matter.
A persuasive speech might appeal to a person's cultural, educational, or religious background. This helps people to feel connected, which generally helps these groups to unify and be similar in their beliefs.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech effectively employs a personal appeal to all those who have kids. His words ring true from a racial perspective, not one race but all races who were tired of discrimination.
http://www.americanrhetoric.com/top100speechesall.html
Background Behind this Blog
"Ma ma, " and "MINE," were favorites amongst some of my earliest uttered words. Each of these words conveyed a sort of message to those listening. During emotional times of happiness or sorrow, through laughter or tears, Ma was summoned to witness and, at times, share in my mood. When I bonked my head against the two foot high wooden desk drawer that had been carelessly left open by my older sister, I called for Ma. Sometimes, she did not hear my cries. This encouraged further speech out of a two year old girl. The word "MINE" conveyed a different message; it labeled those things of which I rightfully or unfairly claimed possession. Speech during my "my stage" most closely resembled a dog who goes around peeing on every tree, fire hydrant, and mailbox just to mark its territory. Regardless for what it is used, speech has a purpose.
Alexander Pope, the first English writer to succeed monetarily through his writing, had substance behind his words. Though his was written communication, his messages aren't altogether unrelated to the spoken word. Pope's work, The Dunciad, reads, "Since Man from beast by words is known..." Pope gave reason as to why speech should be important to people, They are the only creatures capable to use it.
With such a helpful communication tool at people's disposal, they need to choose their words carefully. As I said before, speech should have a purpose. One of Pope's concerns was the use of empty or meaningless words. If speech is what differentiates humans from grazing cows and carefree dogs then they had better use their words toward communicating substance; otherwise, they might as well start mooing or barking.
This blog will delve further into what purposeful speech actually is and how it can help people to communicate better. It will also look at examples of speeches to determine what about those speeches is particularly useful or detrimental to the overall speech goal--good, substance-filled communication.
Alexander Pope, the first English writer to succeed monetarily through his writing, had substance behind his words. Though his was written communication, his messages aren't altogether unrelated to the spoken word. Pope's work, The Dunciad, reads, "Since Man from beast by words is known..." Pope gave reason as to why speech should be important to people, They are the only creatures capable to use it.
With such a helpful communication tool at people's disposal, they need to choose their words carefully. As I said before, speech should have a purpose. One of Pope's concerns was the use of empty or meaningless words. If speech is what differentiates humans from grazing cows and carefree dogs then they had better use their words toward communicating substance; otherwise, they might as well start mooing or barking.
This blog will delve further into what purposeful speech actually is and how it can help people to communicate better. It will also look at examples of speeches to determine what about those speeches is particularly useful or detrimental to the overall speech goal--good, substance-filled communication.
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