Eye Opener
Clues to eulogers, preachers and speakers
I attended recently an occasion where speakers and preachers outpreach one another. There was one preacher who delivered a three-minute talk; a number 20-30 minutes and a few about an hour. What is nauseating is the responses of a number of eulogers, songsters, comforters, praisers, friends and family members. The event lasted for nearly five hours.
How long should a speech be that the audience will listen attentively and not leave their seats? A charismatic pentecostal preacher once said, "Preachers/Priests who deliver short sermon are likely to be invited again by those who discourage lengthy messages.
U.S. Pres. Abraham Lincoln spoke only when he knew his subject, briefly and concise. The historical Gettysburg Address of Lincoln was short but the world did little know that it was a masterpiece discourse that today many still remember and recite the historic oration in classes and in public gatherings. When making a public discourse, the attitude of the audience toward an idea is something to consider in speaking. According to the author of a cute "Famous Speeches and Public Speaking" on the three ways which listeners take toward an idea: 1) by agreeing to it, 2) by showing doubt and 3) by refusing to believe it. A speech that will surely entertain people is likely to be appreciated.
There are some Emcees who limit the speech of invited guests, say 15 to 20 minutes. But there are speakers, the Charlatan ones, who speak as along as the audience endure the boredom. Some speakers usually begin with some anecdotes or jokes by which to build up interest and arouses curiosity. Audience consists of human beings with minds full of ideas, beliefs and experiences. It is of paramount interest that the speaker know them.
When one is not prepared to speak, then speak not! Do not apologize to the audience. Don't beg. Don't give the impression that you have nothing to offer. Taking negative approach by describing in unflattering or caustic terms those people who might fail to do as you ask as gleaned from the writing of a speech author. Remember that a short speech makes a long compliment, while a long speech makes unhealthy comment. A nightmare speech puts listeners to frightful dreams. A charismatic preaching puts the audience atune with Jesus Christ. It is surprising that Pentecostal evangelists preach the Word of God for hours and the worshippers are not bored as they sing divine music to God. At any rate, study your audience if they could last for over an hour speaking if the subject is not suited for their taste. Hence, speak briefly and convincingly that will put your audience to standing ovation.