Creative Writing – Eulogy
EULOGY – a speech given at a funeral or memorial service in memory of the deceased.
Steps to Writing a Eulogy:
1. Decide the tone – How serious or light-hearted do you want to the eulogy to be?
A strong eulogy does not need to be uniformly solemn, just appropriate. Some
eulogy writers may prefer a serious piece, while others may have a knack for
adding humour. Used cautiously, humour can relax both the speaker and the
audience.
2. Consider the audience – Write the eulogy with the deceased's family and loved
ones in mind. A funeral or memorial service is not the time to indulge personal
agendas or promote yourself.
3. Keep your eulogy respectful – Don't say anything you wouldn't say in front of the
deceased.
4. Be personal – Highlight any moments that you may have experienced with the
person.
5. Be clear – Make sure that the eulogy is concise and easy to follow.
6. Use a conversational tone – Use your notes or written draft, but talk to the
audience as though you're talking to a friend. Funerals should comfort the
mourners and recall the person who has passed on.
Use the back of this sheet to write a eulogy that expresses your sorrow
for the loss of Romeo, Juliet, or another character in the play.