Martin Luther and President Barrack Obama

I’ve always understood that the purpose of speech is to persuade, inspire, or motivate listeners to accept a certain viewpoint. I was unable to find the motivation or courage to find a means to make such a speech until I began to observe the late Martin Luther King and Barack Obama. My speaking styles and skills have been significantly influenced by these two leaders. Obama and King both mention the constitution as one of their most significant parts of leadership. I borrowed the idea of having a subject and thesis from these two leaders. Obama and King used the constitution in most of their speeches making it evident that their intention was based on a legitimate ground. Once they have established this fact, they proceed to use slogans and metaphorical language to add to the memory of their speech. For example, the former President Obama is known for his slogan “yes we can” and King’s was “I have a dream”. Such axioms are of great significance in creating good memories in the mind of the audience. After I developed and used one of my own, I became somewhat popular and I gained more confidence.

I have also borrowed the idea of using contrast to sharpen ideas. I find this to be one of the most suitable techniques in convincing people to see things my way. King used contrast in most of his speeches like when he asks rhetorical questions. At one point, he questions whether his faith can transform the discords in the nation. Such contrast makes his appeal appear legitimate and quite convincing. Severally, I have used the same technique in convincing my audience.