Meaning: This quote by John Colville, a public servant, beautifully captures the process of crafting and delivering a powerful speech. Colville was a British civil servant who served as Private Secretary to Winston Churchill during World War II, and later as Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. His experiences in the political and public service realms likely informed his understanding of the meticulous preparation and delivery of impactful speeches.

In this quote, Colville uses the metaphor of fertilizing a phrase or a line of poetry for weeks before giving birth to it in a speech. This imagery vividly depicts the care and attention that goes into the creation and development of a powerful speech. Just as a seed is nurtured and cultivated before it bears fruit, a phrase or line of poetry is carefully nurtured in the mind of the speaker before it is delivered to an audience.

The act of fertilizing a phrase or line of poetry for weeks suggests that crafting a speech is a deliberate and time-consuming process. It involves deep thought, reflection, and refinement. A speaker must carefully consider the meaning, impact, and nuances of the words they choose to use. This process of fertilization represents the intellectual and creative labor that goes into developing a compelling message.

The metaphorical "giving birth" to the fertilized phrase or line of poetry in a speech emphasizes the transformative nature of the speaker's work. The act of delivering a speech is likened to the moment of bringing something new and powerful into the world. It suggests that the culmination of the speaker's efforts is the moment of delivery, where the carefully nurtured words are finally shared with an audience.

Colville's use of the word "birth" also implies that the speech is a creation, a product of the speaker's imagination and labor. This highlights the personal investment and emotional energy that speakers invest in their craft. It also suggests that the act of delivering a speech is a moment of great significance, akin to the arrival of a new life.

Overall, this quote eloquently captures the meticulous and laborious process of preparing and delivering a speech. It underscores the importance of careful consideration and nurturing of language, as well as the transformative power of effective communication. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and artistry required to deliver a truly impactful speech.

In conclusion, John Colville's quote offers a poignant insight into the process of crafting and delivering a speech. It emphasizes the careful cultivation of language and the transformative nature of effective communication. As a public servant who worked closely with one of the greatest orators of the 20th century, Colville's perspective on the art of speechmaking carries weight and significance. His words serve as a reminder of the dedication and craftsmanship required to deliver a powerful and meaningful message to an audience.