While looking for a quotation by David Cameron, I came across the transcript of his recent speech at the RSA.
While looking for a quotation by David Cameron, I came across the transcript of his recent speech at the RSA.
Whatever you think of the content of Cameron's speech, the written form of the speech is pretty striking. Most points are expressed in single or double lines, with three line points being the exception, and one or two deviant ideas spilling over into four lines.
It seems the key not to dwell on one point for too long. I am not sure what to think about this yet, but the next time you listen for a political speech, look out for this structure of sentences without paragraphs, ideas without qualifications, facts without sources.Who writes his speeches?
Is this particular to Cameron, or are all political speeches written this way?
If so, why?
Does it make them easier to deliver?
Does it make them sound better to the audience?
Should we be worried that speech writers filter political ideas in this way?
Is it part of our the relentless dumbing down of political culture?
Is there an rhetoric expert out there who can enlighten us?
Thank you.
Related articles
-
Imagining a better future through foresight – why the metaphors we use matter
Adanna Shallowe
As we begin to imagine the post-pandemic world, we need to challenge our use of old metaphors to allow for new narratives and better futures to emerge.
-
Polarised: The RSA podcast exploring the politics of division
James Shield
Is it really true that we’ve never been more divided as a society? And if it is, how did it happen and what can be done?
-
How can we give up bad habits for good?
Ian Burbidge
With the post-Christmas resolutions looming, when we try to address the worst of our seasonal over-indulgences, the question remains: how can we give up bad habits for good?
Be the first to write a comment
Comments
Please login to post a comment or reply
Don't have an account? Click here to register.