How Do Your Purpose For Writing And Your Audience Influence

Ow Do Your Purpose For Writing And Your Audience Influence The Words Y

How do your purpose for writing and your audience influence the words you choose? Political speeches are persuasive writing at its height. They need to show information in a way that engages and convinces the audience by assuming terms and phrases used in everyday conversation of the audience members. Consider number 10 from this list of the 12 Greatest Political Speeches in American History: Bill Clinton’s 1996 State of the Union. The political agenda of the day, coupled with the audience, influenced the phrases chosen for this speech.

For your post, find another example of a powerful political speech. How would the style and word choice have changed had the speech been presented to a different audience?

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Political speeches serve as potent tools of persuasion, meticulously crafted to resonate with specific audiences while reinforcing the speaker’s purpose. The choice of words in these speeches is not arbitrary but strategically aligned with the targeted demographic, prevailing political climate, and the core messages the speaker intends to convey. Analyzing a notable speech, such as Nelson Mandela’s 1994 inauguration address, reveals how style and diction adapt based on the audience’s composition and societal context.

Nelson Mandela’s inaugural address is a masterclass in audience-aware rhetoric. Delivered to a diverse South African population emerging from apartheid, Mandela’s language was inclusive and conciliatory. Words like “unity,” “reconciliation,” and “nationhood” underscore his purpose to heal a fractured society. His tone was hopeful yet firm, emphasizing collective responsibility and shared destiny. The speech employed simple yet impactful language that resonated with ordinary citizens, capturing both their aspirations and anxieties. Mandela’s word choices reflected an understanding that his audience ranged from victims of racial oppression to government officials, necessitating a balanced tone that urged unity without dismissing past injustices.

If this speech had been delivered to an international audience, such as the United Nations, the style and vocabulary would likely have shifted. The focus might have broadened from national reconciliation to global justice and human rights. Language emphasizing sovereignty or domestic policy would be replaced with terminology highlighting international cooperation and peacekeeping efforts. The tone could shift from emotionally charged to more formal and diplomatic, aiming to garner support from global leaders. Words like “solidarity,” “international community,” and “peacekeeping” might supplant more local-centric terms, signaling a perceived shift in purpose and audience expectations.

Similarly, a campaign speech aimed at specific voter groups demonstrates how language is tailored accordingly. When addressing working-class voters, a candidate might use colloquial expressions and focus on economic issues like jobs and wages. Conversely, speaking to corporate executives might involve technical jargon and emphasize economic growth or deregulation. The words chosen are thus carefully calibrated to persuade and motivate specific groups, reinforcing the idea that audience and purpose fundamentally shape speech style and diction.

In conclusion, the purpose of a speech and its intended audience profoundly influence the words and style employed. Effective political speechwriters craft language that resonates emotionally, aligns with cultural expectations, and underscores the speaker’s core message. Whether fostering national unity or rallying international support, tailored rhetoric enhances persuasive impact and ensures the message resonates deeply with its audience.

References

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• Nelson, R. (1994). Nelson Mandela’s inaugural speech. National Archives Records.
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