QUALITIES
OF A GOOD PUBLIC SPEECH
A good public speech is concise,
impressive, relevant, pleasant, and memorable. The speaker should be fully
aware of the theme of his speech and the impact he wants to create on his audience.
In a public speech one should be
truthful. He should say what is authentic. There should be no lies, especially in
his statements about relevant events, historical references and vital aims and
purposes.
A speech based on facts with no
exaggeration is more effective and successful than the one which is even
partially false and cannot stand the test of scrutiny.
A quotable public speech is a moral
statement; it is without pinches of salt and also not void of the basis of eternal
authenticity.
Great speeches become unforgettable.
They are frequently quoted and occupy an important reference in the books of
social, political, literary and cultural history not only of the speaker’s own country
but also of the general history of many
other countries.
The speeches of Edmund Burke (1729-1797)
in the British Parliament where he spoke
about the excesses of the French Revolution of 1789-1799 are still studied and
quoted for their qualities of erudition, logical reasoning, rhetorical devices,
emotional intensity, literary eloquence, practical wisdom, moral contents and philosophical depth.
Public speeches which include unfair
criticism of the acts and policies of one’s opponents and rivals create
hazardous consequences both at the verbal and practical levels. A great speaker
does not move away from the highest possible stage of dignity and
respectfulness.
Remember, an effective speech wins
friends, not creates enemies.
Finally, here is a famous quote of the Greek philosopher Plato
(427-347 B.C.E.): “A wise man speaks because he has something to say; a fool
speaks because he has to say something. “
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G.R.Kanwal
2nd November 2025
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