The Political Speechwriter's Companion

A Guide for Writers and Speakers

NEW TO THIS EDITION:

• A foreword by Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) offers a rare view of the speechwriting process drawing from his four decades as a national figure.
• An expanded discussion of ethics clarifies for students the definition of an unethical speech and provides examples of recent speeches that were plagiarized or misleading. 
• New content on technology provides students with new websites and avenues to communicate—making it easier for students to their conduct research and expand their reach.
• Influences from political life are integrated throughout each chapter to help students understand the motivation for speeches and the true stories that have influenced the language. 
• New co-author Eric Schnure draws from years of speechwriting experience to help students develop good speechwriting skills. Called by one reporter the "go-to-guys" for political humor in Washington, he also provides insights into the roasts that are part of Washington life. 
• An expanded discussion on persuasion provides students with a critical assessment of the elements of persuasion, as well as the reasons why persuasive speech has dominated the field. 
• A new interview with Dr. Elvin Lim, author of The Anti-Intellectual Presidency, enables students to develop a more nuanced view about issues discussed in the book by examining the views of someone whose ideas are opposite of the authors. 

KEY FEATURES:

• Annotated Speeches provide students with important notes and help clarify the variety of techniques used in speechwriting. 
• Interviews with some of the best speechwriters in the country offer students helpful tips for crafting a successful speech. 
• “Behind the Scenes” insights from historic speeches give students a glimpse into the work that it takes to pull off an effective speech. 
• Multiple exercises throughout the book enable students to practice and build their speechwriting skills. 
• A “Speechwriter’s Checklist” at the end of every chapter reminds students of the most important things they will need to remember when drafting a speech. 
• “As Delivered” boxes point students to a series of web links where they can watch the speeches being discussed in the book.