Final answer:
It is true that the occasion of a speech often suggests an appropriate general speech purpose, whether it be to inform, persuade, or entertain. Speeches like Roosevelt's Pearl Harbor address and Obama's speech at the Democratic National Convention show how purpose can align with the occasion and audience expectations. Understanding context, audience, and culture is crucial in creating an effective speech.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement, The speech occasion itself often suggests an appropriate general speech purpose, is true. The context or occasion of a speech often indicates whether the speech should be informative, persuasive, or entertaining. For instance, when a speech is given during a solemn ceremony, the purpose might be to honor or memorialize, implying a more serious or reflective tone. Conversely, a speech at a celebration might aim to entertain or amuse the audience.
An informative speech like President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Pearl Harbor speech not only conveyed information but also aimed to influence Congress, thereby serving both informative and persuasive purposes. Similarly, Barack Obama's speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention was both informative and instrumental in his political rise, showing how the purpose of a speech can resonate with the context and audience expectations.
A successful speech aligns with audience, purpose, context, and community expectations. The writer's voice needs to maintain objectivity and trustworthiness to ensure the desired impact. This alignment is critical whether the speech is part of a formal occasion, like a political campaign, or a more personal setting, such as advocating for environmental issues. Moreover, understanding and considering cultural values and shared practices of the audience can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the speech.