What does it mean to charge a speech with "intent"?

Charging a speech with "intent" means having a clear purpose and a desired outcome for the audience. This concept emphasizes the importance of understanding why you're speaking and what you hope to achieve by delivering your message. An intentional speech is crafted with specific goals in mind, whether that is to inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire the audience. This clarity helps the speaker design the content, structure, and delivery of the speech to align with those objectives, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of the communication.

When a speaker knows their intent, they can better engage their audience, ensuring that the message resonates and is memorable. This focus on purpose aids in selecting relevant examples, supporting material, and persuasive strategies that fulfill the desired outcome. Therefore, the clarity of intent shapes the entire speech-making process, leading to a more impactful presentation.