Mastering the Art of Speech Writing and Delivery: A Custom Tailored Approach

When approaching the task of creating a speech, many individuals often wonder if there is a clear distinction between the principles of writing and delivering a speech. In fact, the relationship between writing and delivery is often more cohesive than you might think. A speech should be designed to resonate with its intended speaker, much like a well-tailored suit that fits perfectly.

Understanding the Core Differences

The fundamentals of speech writing and delivery share a common goal: to effectively communicate a message to an audience. However, the techniques and considerations involved in each process are nuanced and distinct. Writing a speech focuses on crafting a coherent and compelling narrative, while the delivery process emphasizes the rhetorical skills and adaptability of the speaker.

The idea that a speech should be written to be delivered is a potent reminder of the interactive nature of public speaking. The delivery style, vocabulary choices, and even the pacing of the speech all need to be tailored to the speaker's characteristics and the audience's expectations, much like a designer customizes a garment for a particular client.

Case Study: JFK and LBJ

John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson provide compelling examples of how each speaker can imbue the same speech with unique dimensions through their individual speaking styles and skills. While both men were presidents of the United States, their distinct approaches highlighted the importance of customization in public speaking.

Kennedy is often remembered for his articulate and inspirational speeches, such as his inaugural address and his famous “Ich bin ein Berliner” address in West Berlin during the Cold War. His eloquent and high-pitched voice, combined with his dynamic delivery, captivated the attention of audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, Johnson, with his smooth Southern drawl and powerful oratory skills, delivered speeches that were equally compelling but in his own distinct way. Both speeches, despite their differences in style, aimed to inspire and engage the public.

The Speech as a Custom Tailored Suit

Imagine a tailored suit. The first step is the consultation, where the tailor takes measurements, understands the client's preferences, and discusses the desired fit. Similarly, in speech writing, the scribe must understand the speaker's unique voice, the context, and the intended audience.

Just as a tailor would adjust the dimensions for a better fit, a speech writer and speaker must adapt the content to ensure it aligns with the speaker's speaking style and the audience's expectations. For instance, a politician with a stentorian voice might use staccato phrases and dramatic pauses, while a more conversational speaker might employ anecdotal stories and a more gentle tone.

Key Elements of Speech Writing and Delivery

1. Writing: During the writing phase, the focus is on structure, message, and persuasive techniques. The speech should have a clearly defined introduction, body, and conclusion. The content should be well-researched, offering substantive points that resonate with the audience. Techniques like repetition, rhetorical questions, and emotional appeals are utilized to enhance the persuasive power of the speech.

2. Delivery: The delivery of a speech requires a speaker to adapt their style according to their own vocal and gestural strengths. Tempo, tone, and verbal emphasis are all crucial. A skilled speaker knows how to vary their pitch, pace, and volume to keep the audience engaged. Gestures can also be pivotal, helping to convey emotions and ideas more effectively. Additionally, the speaker must be aware of the audience's reactions and adjust their delivery accordingly.

Conclusion: Customization is Key

In conclusion, the principles of speech writing and delivery are interconnected, but each stage requires its own unique set of skills and considerations. A speech is not just a written document but a product that needs to be tailored to fit both the speaker and the audience. Just as a well-tailored suit sets the stage for a perfectly aligned presentation, so too does a well-crafted and delivered speech set the tone for effective communication and engagement.

Keywords:

Speech Writing Speech Delivery Customization