Polls and Speeches

While some may consider the recent death of Anna Nicole Smith as a tragic occurrence that has developed into a media circus, the case of Ms. Smith’s unfortunate demise is also one that provides a deep reflection into our popular culture. This is why the somewhat bizarre question “Do You Feel Sorry For Anna Nicole Smith” that appeared on commentator Bill O’Reilly’s website (www.billoreilly.com) is quite topical and the 65% that answered NO to the poll provide a subject for inquiry. (Please note that the poll figures were announced on the radio at 65% on 2/23, but the number may shrink or increase before voting ends)

From this poll, there are three speech topics that could be devised: America and its excessive celebrity worship; Victims of drugs: sympathy or scorn [?]; and The Dark Side of Fame. As one can see, all three of those topics is quite general and in order to make the audience hearing the speech feel a more compelling attachment to the subject, the use of an example known to them would be advised.

The case of a celebrity’s drug problem and a poll that reflects thousands of people’s sentiments can be excellent supporting material. The sad situation regarding Ms. Smith’s death and the public reaction to it is thought provoking and could be weaved quite well into any (or all) of those particular speeches.