Thank goodness. The Australian seems to have the same stance on this year’s John Button Oration as I did; the most articulate, intelligent, accurate manner to interpret and communicate the proceeds of Noel Pearson’s speech is in his own words.

Literally.

I’d probably destroy the beautiful text that was his speech with any attempt to paraphrase it.

Which is why I was so impressed to find The Australian published an edited extract of it, while I was hoping Slow TV would upload his speech onto their website.

Until it becomes available in video form- if it does- I’m afraid this will have to do.

I say this only because Mr Pearson is one of the best public speakers I’ve ever had the pleasure to hear; his powerful delivery brought his message life.

The Australian titled the extract, ‘Failed Party in Search of a Purpose’. Truthfully, what he was saying addressed much more than just this.

For me to attempt to summarise it would do it an injustice. The Age’s Michael Gordon seems to have had much more success with the task; unfortunately, I’m not yet skilled enough to equal his effort.

Sorry, dear reader, but you’ll have to draw your own conclusions on this one, as far as I’m concerned.

Follow this link and learn for yourself. You won’t regret it.