Journal # 7
SPC -100
Frank DeMers
Chapter twenty-five gives us an introduction to speeches that we might deliver on special occasions. One aspect that I found interesting about this chapter is that there are general formats that apply to the different types of speeches. Since these types of speeches have a particular purpose or goal, they also have some rules that help us to determine the specific nature of the speech.
Although special occasion speeches may function, as do many other speeches, to inform or persuade an audience. Special occasion speeches are more often meant to entertain, celebrate, commemorate, inspire or to set a social agenda. To fulfil these particular roles, we may need to tailor the speech more carefully, in order to fit the needs of the special occasion.
Some events that might call for an entertaining speech include, banquets, award ceremonies and in some cases an introductory speech might benefit from some levity.
If a speech is given to commemorate a particular event or to honor a person, the audience would expect the speaker to pay tribute to, or offer a remembrance of the event or the person.
We should include some humor in a roast and depending upon the circumstances humor may be a part of a celebratory speech.
These are just a few examples of the rules that may apply to the speeches that we would give on special occasions. I found it helpful to see, that there may be a framework that can help us to construct these speeches. It also helps me to understand that there may be rules that I can apply when organizing and formatting other speeches.
