The Lost Art of the Great Speech

About the Author

Richard Dowis was a former journalist and retired senior vice president of Manning, Selvage, and Lee Public Relations. He was an award-winning editor and speechwriter, renowned for his expertise in crafting compelling and effective speeches. Dowis's book, The Lost Art of the Great Speech, distills his extensive knowledge into practical advice for anyone looking to master the art of speechwriting and delivery.

Main Idea

The Lost Art of the Great Speech by Richard Dowis is a comprehensive guide on how to write and deliver powerful speeches. Dowis emphasizes that the essence of a great speech lies in its content and structure, rather than the speaker’s charisma or voice. The book provides practical techniques for crafting speeches that resonate with audiences and achieve their intended purposes.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Before You Speak
• Preparing to Write
• Organizing Your Speech
• Beginning Well
• Watch Your Language
• Secrets of the Pros
• Using Statistics
• Using Visuals When Necessary
• Closing the Speech
• The Final Stages: Editing Your Speech

Before You Speak

Dowis advises speakers to carefully consider the invitation and the event before agreeing to speak. Understanding the format, topic, purpose, and details of the event is crucial for effective preparation. He emphasizes the importance of selecting a topic that is both appropriate for the audience and meaningful to the speaker.

"Determine what you want the audience to think or feel as a result of your speech." - Richard Dowis

Choosing the appropriate topic is essential for connecting with your audience. A young minister, for example, chose to speak about "The Sin of Lust" to a group of elderly people, but an elderly woman suggested that "rust" would have been more relevant. Understanding your audience's interests and needs helps ensure your message resonates.

• Consult with event organizers to understand the audience's expectations.
• Select a topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about.
• Ensure the topic can be covered within the allotted time.

Preparing to Write

Effective speechwriting begins with thorough research and brainstorming. Dowis highlights the importance of understanding the subject matter, gathering relevant information, and identifying the speech’s purpose. He suggests creating an outline and identifying a clear thesis to guide the writing process.

"A well-written speech is a disciplined speech - it doesn't ramble; it fits the time allotted; it contains no superfluous detail but doesn't leave out anything important." - Richard Dowis

Research involves consulting current books and articles to ensure your information is up-to-date. Brainstorming with a small group can generate ideas and insights, while creating a detailed outline helps organize your thoughts. Identifying a single, strong thesis gives your speech a clear focus.