Writing Critique
Writing Critique
The speech that I am critiquing today was one of the most talked about speeches when it was delivered. The effect of this speech sent ripples throughout China and the world’s stock markets. This is about the Resignation speech of Jack Ma, then CEO of Alibaba Group.
Introduction
The speech was mostly well structured, in that it had the three basics down without going over each other much. While the introduction was fairly long, Ma’s speech hid the main purpose of the speech till late, hence just once, introducing a topic amidst where one would expect the main body of the speech. Apart from that, it followed the structure to the word, with transitions being smooth and largely seamless.
This was a speech that had economic effects throughout the world. It was not going to be delivered simply and without justification. Ma talked about how he began his career, his vision, his success and how it all led to that day. He talked about why he wished to resign and the opportunities that would arise from his stepping down; largely keeping a positive spin on a topic that could have evoked negative emotions. He did this by reassuring audience members and restating their abilities and accomplishments whilst urging them to do greater things moving forward. The speech was well punctuated with quotes, both from known entities and himself, adding legitimacy to a well-written speech.
Delivery
Simply said the delivery of the speech was excellent. Ma held his audience captive by projecting a version of himself that seemed to be larger than himself. He spoke directly, with purpose and vigour. His speech was definitely delivered extemporaneously, with planned pauses and strong emotive prose. Ma’s voice, while amplified by a microphone, was clear and delivered each word eloquently. All pauses were delivered only when he needed it, that too only when making a statement. While Ma is a seemingly small man, his voice and body language showed otherwise as he strode along the stage elaborating (Hair, 2001, p. 272-292). Soft music played throughout the speech in the background, softening the mood.
Conclusion
Ma ended his speech by listing his accomplishments and then roped in the audience by including them with him and attributing the audience for his good fortune. His entire resignation speech did deliver a message that let them down, so in his conclusion he raised his audience’s hopes and promised to help build a better future with more prosperity and standard of life. He ended his speech with two thumbs pointing in the air whilst the audience rose in ovation.
References
Hair, D., Stewart, R., & Rubenstein, H. (2001). Developing the Introduction. In A speaker's guidebook: Text and reference (4th ed., p. 238). Boston: Bedford/St. Martins.
Hair, D., Stewart, R., & Rubenstein, H. (2001). Vocal and Nonverbal Delivery. In A speaker's guidebook: Text and reference (4th ed., p. 271-295). Boston: Bedford/St. Martins.
