So here we are, at the first steps of creating that speech. We have a basic understanding of the three foundational terms ethos, logos and patos, and we do intend to make them work for us. But now, need to start creating.
A good point for that step is to use the first of the five parts, or “the five canons” of rhethorics I mentioned in my post “Basic theories Part 2- The Art of Rhetoric in Five parts”.
Inventio – Building Your Arguments. Finding them – or creating them
In order to make a speech, you need arguments for your case. That means you either discover the best arguments, or invent them. This includes both arguments and counterarguments; to consider what counterarguments you might encounter and preferably find arguments that address them in advance. Counterarguments are essential as they address your opponents point-of-view and, if you’re successful, will help you disarm those before they can damage your case 🙂
In this process, you need to be particular with what arguments you choose in relation to who you are talking to; what do they know or think they know? What do they want? What do they need? To find the best arguments, this is important. You’ll benefit from different arguments if you’re talking to customers, young summer workers, or a climate advocacy group – to name a few examples.
There are many (and long) lists of how to find the arguments you need to drive your thesis home. I’m not going into the details at such length, but I will state a simple truth that I once thought was unnecessary and overkill to even mention: Facts are important. The sad part of this is, of course, that this isn’t as much of common-ground as it once was. But it remains true. Facts are important. With that said, all facts are also placed in context.
For example, it may be an undisputed fact that a suspect was in the same room as the murder victim, and that the weapon – lacking fingerprints – was accessible. But if it turns out that the weapon was fired with the right hand – and the suspect doesn’t have a right arm, the situation changes.
Also, you will have different ways of finding your arguments depending on what type of speech you are going to hold. Will it be a classical case of accusing or defending – a political cause, a business proposal, an organizational change…? Or is it a Praise or Condemning kind of situation..? A praising speech at a wedding, maybe? You see – very different sets of arguments needed.
With this step covered, however, I would say that you are well on your way in the Journey of your Speech. Good luck and hope I will meet you in the following posts, about the other four rhetorical canons.
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