So, you’re sending your army to fight for something they might not completely understand, and many of them will meet certain death in the process? They’re going to need a little pick-me-up, a reason for doing it. Add a touch of glory to the message: it’ll be the caffeine boost of the initial attack. Try to work in words like “honour,” “courage,” “heroes” and “for centuries.” They’re motivational gold, proven to produce fewer deserters than other pre-battle keywords.
What’s that? You’ve got an army of hundreds? A couple thousand? All on horseback? You’re from 5th-century Middle-Earth? You don’t know what a megaphone is? Listen, I’m not being funny, but I’d be surprised if anyone hears you past the first couple of rows.
Whyn’t you do everyone a favour and make sure there’s enough beer.
OLIVIA COLLETTE 