I once wrote speeches for a future prime minister, and the experience taught me invaluable lessons. The first, and perhaps most crucial, was the need for authenticity. Jean Chrétien, a man of the people, famously told me, “You write beautifully for Kennedy, but I am not Kennedy.” It was a stark reminder that a speech must resonate with the speaker’s voice, not an imitation of another.
Beyond voice, a truly impactful speech requires a delicate balance. It’s not enough to appeal solely to logic or emotion; the most effective messages ignite both the heart and the mind, carefully tailored to the audience. This blend creates a connection that transcends simple persuasion.
But perhaps the most daring lesson came from witnessing courage in action. Great leaders aren’t afraid to take risks. Chrétien, against my initial counsel, boldly opposed the invasion of Iraq. Brian Mulroney confronted Reagan and Thatcher over apartheid. Stephen Harper defied conservative dogma during the financial crisis. They all chose principle over political expediency.
This willingness to challenge the status quo is precisely what makes Mark Carney’s recent address so remarkable. His speech at the World Economic Forum wasn’t just well-received; it sparked a global conversation. It sounded undeniably like him – a testament to his direct involvement in its creation – and masterfully combined reasoned argument with passionate conviction.
Carney didn’t shy away from a controversial stance, and that’s what set it apart. He directly addressed pressing global issues with a clarity and determination that resonated far beyond the conference hall. The response was swift and widespread, cutting across traditional political divides.
Leaders from around the world offered praise. Gavin Newsom, a potential future U.S. presidential candidate, called the speech “incredibly effective.” Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum simply stated, “That was a very good speech.” Even figures from Canada’s political spectrum – Peter MacKay, James Moore, and Charlie Angus – acknowledged its power and importance.
The impact extended beyond political circles. Michael Kovrig, recently released after being detained in China, hailed it as “the best speech by a world leader that I have read in a very long time.” Nicholas Kristof of the New York Times described it as “quite brilliant,” and Sir Richard Branson called it “one of the most insightful political speeches in a long time.”
However, the most telling reaction came from the speech’s unspoken target: Donald Trump. His response, delivered with characteristic bluster, revealed the depth of his discomfort. He demanded gratitude from Canada, claiming the country “lives because of the United States.” This outburst, rare in its directness, underscored the speech’s impact.
Trump’s ire wasn’t simply about policy disagreement; it was about being challenged. Carney had dared to speak truth to power, and in doing so, he had scored a significant victory. He had stepped onto the ice, faced his opponent head-on, and left a lasting impression. The echoes of that speech continue to reverberate around the world.
