Closing with a Quote

End with a powerful quote from a reference

Ending a speech with a famous quote is a classic technique that adds distinction and depth.

As in the opening, using the words of a recognized historical figure, philosopher or opinion leader allows the speaker to "borrow" the authority and emotional weight of that figure to reinforce his or her own conclusion.

This strategy is especially useful when looking for an inspirational or solemn ending.

A good quote has the ability to encapsulate the essence of the entire speech in a single, brilliant, time-polished sentence.

For example, if the talk has been about the importance of innovation versus the fear of failure, closing with a lapidary phrase from a famous inventor about error as part of learning will resonate with a force that perhaps the speaker's own words would not reach.

Selection and appropriateness of the quote

The key to making this closing not seem like a cliché or a superficial embellishment lies in proper selection.

The quote must be intimately tied to the central message; it cannot be a nice phrase thrown in at random.

In addition, the speaker must ensure that the quoted figure is respected and known to the audience to avoid confusion or rejection.

It is possible to have a battery of quotes ready, but choose the final one based on how the energy in the room has developed.

Sometimes a quote can serve to summarize, sometimes to provoke, sometimes to comfort.

The speaker can read it verbatim or, better yet, recite it from memory with appropriate intonation, giving it dramatic weight.

By uttering the quote and then remaining silent, these extraneous but appropriate words are allowed to resonate in the air, lending an air of wisdom and transcendence a