Although we tend to think of the situation as something to which the speech responds,
the message itself also works to shape the situation. Before Katie Jacobson
spoke about crime on campus, her audience thought it was a problem for the campus
police to solve, but during the speech, they began to see campus crime as a
problem that called for individuals to take responsibility for the solution. The message
had redefined the situation.
In most cases, an audience’s understanding of a situation can be improved
by a speech that is organized effectively, that includes interesting examples and
memorable phrases, and that is presented enthusiastically. Although many factors
determine whether a speech responds successfully to a rhetorical situation, by
understanding the basic factors involved you can better shape your message as a
speaker and can participate more fully as a listener.