How can referencing a timely event influence a speech's introduction?

Referencing a timely event in a speech's introduction can effectively establish relevance, which is crucial for engaging the audience. When a speaker connects their topic to current events or recent happenings, it helps the audience see the direct applicability of the message to their lives or to broader societal issues. This relevance captures the listeners’ attention and creates a sense of urgency, encouraging them to be more invested in what the speaker has to say. By demonstrating how the speech relates to something the audience may already be interested in or concerned about, the speaker can build a stronger connection with the audience right from the beginning. This strategy can make the speech more impactful and memorable, effectively setting the stage for the main content that follows.