Refer to the Occasion
Refer to the Occasion
There is a reason you are presenting this speech. There is a reason why the audience is present at this speech. These reasons can provide you with an effective introduction. Referring to the occasion is often used as an introduction to tribute speeches, toasts, dedication ceremonies and historical events. Speech scholar Lloyd Bitzer argues that all speeches are made at least in part in response to specific occasions5, so referring to the occasion seems a good idea.
Bono, lead singer of the rock group U2 and an activist for a number of humanitarian issues, addressed the 54th annual National Prayer Breakfast, and started his speech with these words: “Well, thank you, thank you Mr. President, First Lady, King Abdullah of Jordan, Norm [Coleman], distinguished guests. Please join me in praying that I don't say something we'll all regret."6
