In listening to a fine speech, well delivered, the effect seems to spring from a wonderful spontaneity; all is so natural, and so apparently facile in achievement. Lucidly logical, and now passionately moved; anon, diverting with wit, humour, or sarcasm; suddenly transporting us into the realms of fancy, the speaker is always arresting, and enchains the attention and sympathies of his entire audience.
-from "Chapter IV: Fluency of Thought, Ideas, Etc.
Mental Aspect in Public Speaking"
If you've been searching for a "complete guide to the Preparation and Delivery of Speeches and the Development of Mind, Ideas, Vocabulary, and Expressions required by Public Speakers," here you go.
Published in 1911, the advice this handy little tome offers is quite helpful... if you can find it through the author's florid prose and dictatorial attitude. From preparing mentally to give a speech and training one's memory to recall your words to such practical matters as breathing exercises and lists of vocabulary words with which to practice pronunciations, you'll learn much... and feel as if you've gotten your knuckles rapped.
BONUS! Practice with the supplied speeches from the Earl of Chatham (1708-1778) on the "importance of the colonies," Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881) on the "repeal of the corn laws,"
Lord Macaulay (1800-1859) on "Parliamentary reform," and others!
OF INTEREST TO: fans of kitsch, public speakers
AUTHOR BIO:
ERNEST GUY PERTWEE was professor of elocution at City of London School, and is also the author of The Reciter's Treasury of Verse, Scenes from Dickens for Drawing-Room and Platform Acting, and other books.
