Becoming a Political Speechwriter: Educating Yourself for Success

Introduction

Become a political speechwriter? It may sound challenging, but with the right education and guidance, it is a path you can truly take. The role of a political speechwriter is to create impactful speeches that resonate with the public, shape policies, and influence public opinion. While many might think an English degree is a prerequisite, the reality is that a more diverse educational background, combined with extensive reading and practice, is essential. This article explores the key subjects and resources you should study to prepare for a career as a political speechwriter.

Core Subjects to Study

To draft astute and engaging political speeches, your educational journey should begin with a solid foundation in several key subjects:

History: Understanding the socio-political landscape is crucial. Key periods and events in history can provide valuable context for the speeches you will write. Psychology: Knowing how to influence and engage the audience is essential. Books like Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini and To Sell Is Human by Dan Pink can offer profound insights into persuasion techniques. Political Science: This subject provides crucial context in understanding the political systems and dynamics you will be working within. Subjects like public policy, political theory, and government structures are vital. Philosophy: Critical thinking and ethical considerations can be necessary for creating powerful and meaningful speeches.

Recommended Reading

Alongside these core subjects, there are several books that can enrich your understanding and skills as a political speechwriter:

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini Instant Influence: How to Persuade Anyone in Any Situation for Almost Anything by Michael Pantalon To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others by Daniel Pink Speaking in Public: The Only Speech Writing Book You'll Ever Need by Reid Buckley Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip and Dan Heath Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger Talk Like TED: The Guide to Structuring Opinions into Powerful Talks by Carmine Gallo

Practical Recommendations

While gaining the theoretical knowledge is crucial, practical skills cannot be overlooked. Here are some steps to help you build your skills:

Join a debate team or participate in public speaking courses to practice delivering speeches confidently and effectively.

Read extensively, including renowned speeches and orations. Look at the works of renowned political leaders, such as John F. Kennedy and Winston Churchill who are known for their impactful speeches and writing techniques.

Study the work of successful political speechwriters, like Jon Favreau, who majored in Political Science at Holy Cross and played a significant role in crafting many of Barack Obama's notable speeches.

Stay up-to-date with current events and political developments. This will not only provide you with relevant material but also help you understand the contexts of your writing.

Conclusion

Becoming a political speechwriter is a complex and rewarding career path that requires a combination of educational foundation, practical experience, and continuous learning. By studying history, psychology, political science, and philosophy, and by delving into the right literature, you can lay a strong foundation for success in this field.

Resources:

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, Robert Cialdini Instant Influence: How to Persuade Anyone in Any Situation for Almost Anything, Michael Pantalon To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others, Daniel Pink Speaking in Public: The Only Speech Writing Book You'll Ever Need, Reid Buckley Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, Chip and Dan Heath Contagious: Why Things Catch On, Jonah Berger Talk Like TED: The Guide to Structuring Opinions into Powerful Talks, Carmine Gallo