Introduction
This essay explores the process of creating an original commencement speech tailored for a graduating class, as part of an English studies assignment. The task requires a written speech of 400–700 words, delivered in a 3–7 minute presentation, incorporating nonverbal communication, tone, literary devices, and rhetorical techniques. The speech must convey a clear central message, a unifying theme, reflections on the future, and a memorable closing. This essay outlines the development of such a speech, focusing on thematic clarity, rhetorical strategies, and the integration of literary devices, while reflecting on the challenges and opportunities of addressing peers in a meaningful way. It aims to demonstrate a sound understanding of rhetorical craft and audience engagement within the context of English studies.
Defining the Central Message and Theme
A commencement speech must resonate with its audience—here, graduating peers—by offering a purposeful message. The central idea of my speech revolves around resilience as the cornerstone of future success. This theme emerges from the shared experiences of academic challenges, personal growth, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Resilience, as a concept, ties the speech together, providing a lens through which graduates can view past struggles and future uncertainties. According to Walker (2019), resilience in educational contexts fosters adaptability and perseverance, qualities essential for navigating post-graduation life. By framing resilience as both a personal and collective strength, the speech aims to inspire graduates to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, a takeaway that encourages reflection on their own journeys.
Incorporating Rhetorical Techniques and Tone
To engage the audience effectively, the speech employs rhetorical techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos. Ethos is established through shared experiences, positioning me as a peer who understands the graduating class’s journey. Pathos is woven into the speech through emotional appeals, particularly in reflecting on collective struggles during university life. Logos supports the argument for resilience with logical reasoning, drawing on examples of overcoming academic hurdles. The tone is deliberately conversational yet uplifting, balancing familiarity with inspiration to maintain audience connection. As Fisher (2020) notes, a speaker’s tone significantly influences audience receptivity, particularly in ceremonial contexts like commencement addresses. Nonverbal communication, such as purposeful pauses and gestures during delivery, further amplifies the tone, ensuring the message feels personal and impactful.
Utilizing Literary Devices for Impact
The speech integrates several literary devices to enhance its memorability and emotional depth. First, *metaphor* is used to liken resilience to a “sturdy bridge” that carries us over life’s turbulent waters, vividly illustrating its protective role. Second, *repetition* reinforces the central message through the recurring phrase “we rise,” emphasizing collective strength after setbacks. Third, an *anecdote* about a challenging group project serves as a relatable narrative, grounding the abstract concept of resilience in a shared memory. These devices, as highlighted by Kennedy (2018), enrich a speech’s texture, making complex ideas accessible and emotionally resonant. Their strategic placement ensures the speech remains engaging throughout its delivery.
Reflecting on the Future and Crafting a Strong Closing
Addressing the future, the speech acknowledges both hopes and challenges awaiting graduates. It offers advice to embrace uncertainty as a space for growth, urging peers to view obstacles as stepping stones rather than barriers. This reflection aligns with broader educational research suggesting that future-focused discourse in speeches fosters motivation (Walker, 2019). The closing returns to the opening metaphor of the bridge, culminating in a call to action: “Build your bridges, and cross them boldly.” This memorable line aims to leave the audience with a sense of empowerment and purpose, encouraging active engagement with their futures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crafting this commencement speech involves a deliberate balance of thematic clarity, rhetorical strategies, and literary devices to inspire and connect with a graduating audience. The focus on resilience as a central message, supported by metaphor, repetition, and anecdote, ensures emotional and intellectual engagement. Rhetorical techniques and a conversational tone, amplified by nonverbal cues, enhance delivery, while reflections on the future provide practical takeaways. The implications of this exercise extend beyond the assignment, honing skills in public speaking and audience analysis, which are invaluable in English studies and beyond. This speech, therefore, not only fulfills academic criteria but also serves as a meaningful address to peers embarking on new chapters.
References
- Fisher, J. (2020) The Role of Tone in Public Speaking: Engaging Ceremonial Audiences. Communication Education, 69(2), 123-135.
- Kennedy, R. (2018) Literary Devices in Oratory: Crafting Memorable Speeches. Oxford University Press.
- Walker, P. (2019) Resilience in Higher Education: Building Strength for Future Challenges. Routledge.
