Wednesday's Writing Prompt — Speech

Whether for a win, a loss, or some other occasion, place your character in a situation in which they have to make a speech. How will her address be received? Do the consequences of her words better her world? What benefits does she gain from the address? Or is she instead putting herself or someone else in danger? Is she being forced to make this speech? What will happen if she refuses? 

Consider the emotions of your character. Instead of stating them explicitly, try to reveal them to the reader through describing her physical reactions, her perception of the room, and the diction that she uses. Perhaps she is feeling nauseous and light-headed, or her voice shakes as she speaks. Or, maybe her perception of the lights around her make her feel as though the room is warm and inviting, even glowing. As your character walks up to the microphone or feels the eyes of the spectators for the first time, what happens? Consider starting your story in this very moment, filling in the backstory as you go.