Model Speeches for Practise   By: Grenville Kleiser (1868-1953)

In the world of public speaking, honing one's skills and delivering impactful speeches is a coveted skill. Grenville Kleiser's book, Model Speeches for Practice, serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their oratory prowess.

From the start, Kleiser's book stands out with its comprehensive collection of speeches spanning various topics and occasions. Whether it is a persuasive speech on social issues, an informative presentation on historical events, or a motivational address, the book covers a wide range of subjects. This diversity ensures that readers can find suitable models to emulate, regardless of their purpose or audience.

One of the book's key strengths is its organization and structure. Each speech is categorized by topic and complexity, making it easy for readers to locate the type of speech they want to practice. Additionally, Kleiser provides helpful notes and annotations, providing guidance on the structure, language usage, and delivery techniques for each speech. These insights prove invaluable, as they allow aspiring speakers to learn from a seasoned professional and adapt their own style accordingly.

Another commendable aspect of this book is the inclusion of both classic and contemporary speeches. By incorporating famous historical speeches from prominent figures such as Winston Churchill and Martin Luther King Jr., Kleiser exposes readers to time-tested rhetorical techniques and strategies for captivating an audience. Furthermore, he also includes modern speeches that address contemporary issues, offering a fresh perspective and relevance to the present-day world.

In terms of the speeches themselves, Kleiser's selection strikes a balance between simplicity and complexity. Some speeches are relatively uncomplicated, catering to beginners who are just starting to explore public speaking. These speeches are effective in building confidence and helping newcomers master the basics of speech delivery. On the other hand, the book also presents more intricate speeches, challenging experienced speakers to refine their techniques and take their skills to new heights.

While Model Speeches for Practice offers a plethora of speeches for readers to learn from, it is important to recognize that the book primarily serves as a starting point or framework for improvement. It is designed as a tool for individuals to study and adapt the speeches to suit their own personal style, rather than merely copying them verbatim. The true value lies in analyzing and understanding the techniques employed in these model speeches, and then using that knowledge to craft unique and engaging speeches of one's own.

In conclusion, Grenville Kleiser's Model Speeches for Practice is an excellent resource for individuals looking to enhance their public speaking skills. The wide variety of speeches, the comprehensive annotations, and the inclusion of both classic and contemporary examples make it a valuable tool for anyone seeking to become a more persuasive and effective speaker. It is a book that will no doubt inspire and guide readers, helping them unlock their full potential in the art of public speaking.

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The cardinal rule is that a speaker learns to speak by speaking, hence a careful reading and study of these speeches will do much to develop the student's taste for correct literary and oratorical form... Continue reading book >>