What is the overriding purpose of a speech or written work?

The overriding purpose of a speech or written work is to communicate. This is a broad statement, but it encompasses all the specific goals a speaker or writer might have:

* To inform: Share knowledge, educate, or explain a topic.

* To persuade: Convince the audience to agree with a viewpoint, take action, or change their thinking.

* To entertain: Engage the audience with humor, stories, or captivating presentation.

* To inspire: Motivate the audience to feel emotions, act on their values, or pursue a goal.

* To build relationships: Connect with the audience, create trust, or foster a sense of community.

No matter the specific goal, communication is the driving force. It's the act of transmitting ideas, feelings, and information from the speaker/writer to the listener/reader.

Therefore, while the specific purpose might vary, the overriding purpose of any speech or written work is to achieve effective communication.