January 16, 2004

Reach Out and Touch Your Audience

To the Editor:

William Germano's essay contained much good counsel ("The Scholarly Lecture: How to Stand and Deliver," The Review, November 28). I would add just two bits of advice.

Because the scholarly lecture or conference paper is an exercise in public speaking, it should be written with listeners rather than readers in mind. Yes, enunciate clearly, but also write shorter sentences, make your connections clear, and include phrasing that appeals to the ear. Graduate