When we listen to a recording of a great political speech, say from Churchill or Kennedy, the impact of the talk is magnified by its historical implication. We know that the speech was a turning point in history, and thus, we can appreciate the speech as a catalyst and analyze it with reverence. Even if the language is dated or the delivery sounds strange, the context still makes it powerful.
But what about a speech delivered today, in our modern political climate? How can politicians deliver something powerful in the heyday of emojis, memes, and millennials?
The blueprint for a great political speech can be broken into three core strategies, built sequentially in their order of focus. Think of these three layers as a blueprint to build a pyramid, with “Pulse” at the base and “Delivery” at the very top. Let’s get to building!
The Pulse
A great political speech is created from a need. The speaker gauges the pulse of the current climate, and thus develops an answer or a solution for the need within the narrative of their speech. In short, they know what’s happening in the world around them and they feel capable and equipped to answer that need through their speech. Think of Abraham Lincoln delivering the Gettysburg address after one of the bloodiest battles on American soil; the public needed to understand how and why this tragedy happened. Lincoln was aware of the pulse of the nation, and delivered accordingly.
The Context
Once the speaker understands the pulse they can develop a speech that gives context and practical application to their message. How can the listeners, i.e. citizens, take part in change? How can the crowds be empowered to think, feel, or act differently after hearing their words? All great political speeches are built with a call to action, even if it’s a shift in personal perspective. “Ask not what your country can do for you,” from Kennedy’s inaugural speech is an example of context that was time-appropriate and perspective altering.
The Delivery
With a solid pulse on the need and a heavy dose of context within the text of the speech, delivery makes up the top of the pyramid as the final building block. Great speakers are clear, powerful, and authentic. You can sense how they actually feel, and thus connect it to the way that the audience themselves feel. When Steve Jobs announced a new Apple product, you could sense how excited he was to change the game and offer up something new and revolutionary. If you want to deliver a great political speech yourself, you need to be excited about how the message makes you feel and how it will change the world around you after delivery.
Want to learn more about what makes a political speech great? Take a look at these related articles from our archives!
Do’s and Don’ts for Political Speeches
Lessons from Ancient History: Words of Leadership from Alexander the Great
