ROSHAAN AMEER DISCUSSION PUBLIC SPEAKING "This does not mean dazzling delivery will turn a mindless string of nonsense into a triumphant oration. You cannot make a good speech without having something to say. But having something to say is not enough. You must also know how to say it." Lucas, Stephen; Lucas, Stephen. The Art of Public Speaking (p. 230). McGraw-Hill Higher Education. Kindle Edition. This quote stood out almost instantly as I started the reading and I literally had a rebuttal to it in my head. However it is important to me because one thing that has been taught repeatedly to me, not even just as a speaker but also as a life lesson, is that it isn't always what you say but how you say it. Sometimes, you really could be saying a bunch of nonsense, but if you say it nicely, no one would ever know. Let's look at the songs that we listen to today for example. It sounds good, however, if we really took the time out the dissect the lyrics, we wouldn't look at it as this grammy-award winning piece. When it comes to public speaking, having an outstanding delivering style is essential; however, it is not enough to substitute for a dearth of substance or significant content in the address. This is what the quotation is trying to say. To put it another way, a speaker cannot depend exclusively on their delivering manner in order to compensate for a statement that has been inadequately thought out. It is important for any successful address to have a message that can be communicated to the audience that is both distinct and significant. On the other hand, it is not sufficient to merely have a statement or subject to address. In addition to this, the speaker needs to be aware of how to successfully communicate their information to the audience. This requires having a comprehension of the requirements, interests, and knowledge level of the audience, as well as choosing the appropriate tone, manner, and language to convey the message in a way that is both understandable and interesting. In conclusion, the substance of an address as well as the manner in which it is delivered are both essential components of effective public speaking. It is possible for an excellent delivery style to increase the effect of a well-crafted message; however, it is impossible for an excellent delivery style to substitute the significance of having a significant message in the first place. The public presenters who are the most successful are those who are able to combine powerful material with an engaging delivering style to produce a statement that is remembered and has an impact. I already apply this piece outside of the course by really remembering this when I often make rebuttals to something I do not agree with coming from someone I do respect such as a spouse, a close friend, or boss. By this, I mean that although more times than not, I am going to play devils advocate and disagree with a lot things no matter the subject, I also have to remember to do it in a tasteful manner that is received respectfully while still managing to get my message across.