THE CLASS DAY

The Ivy Orator for next June has already been selected. It is true that nothing can be done to change the system of choosing a man for such a position in time to affect the choice this year. But a progressive step might be taken by the Class of 1936 which is as important in its effect on the populace as any utterance during the graduation exercises.

Leaving aside the question of the merits of the present incumbent, it can truthfully be said that the Ivy Orations of the last few years have done little to arouse public enthusiasm over the wit of Harvard students. The speeches occasionally have been rather amusing to read. They have contained lines which are humorous as they stand in black and white. But in the broad expanses of the Stadium they have found no resounding echoes of applause.

There is no extra-curricular activity at Harvard which prepares a man of the particular task of the Ivy Orator. In the Lampoon there is a chance to be funny on paper. In the Debating Council there is a chance to be oratorical in person but nowhores are the two combined.

A solution for the problem of securing a man who can bring laughter to a crowd in the Stadium, which, after all, is the purpose of the Ivy Orator, can be found in a competition for the position rather than the customary election. It is a class office which demands the particular ability of being humorous in speech. Under the present election system there is only a scant possibility that the right man is chosen as Ivy Orator.