American Journal of
Obstetrics and Gynecology volume 134 number 2
15, 1979
MAY
Transactions of the Forty-fifth Annual Meetiirg of the Pacific Coast Obstetrical and Gynecological Society
Our successors Presidential WILLIAM
J.
address DIGNAM,
M.D.
Los Angeles, California
“SPEECHES ARE like babies-easy to conceive but hard to deliver” (anonymous) is an oft-repeated quotation, or as Smith’ would have it: “Many physicians would prefer passing a small kidney stone to presenting a paper.” I suppose that such concerns may well have application when one is addressing a group of strangers, and would-be critics, but they hardly apply to the presidential address of our society. Fortunately our society gives great latitude to its President regarding the type of address which is/acceptable and it is, indeed, a gre.at privilege and pleasure to be able to share a few thoughts with such a distinguished group of warm and l.oyal friends. I have chosen to comment upon the influences which are shaping the young gynecologists of our day, as I see them. I shall be brief, mindful of the warning of Southgate,’ “Unfortunately, too many authors write as though they will never have another chance-and they are correct.” The laconic Smith’ says, “There are many ways to deliver papers, the best way is to toss them on the front porch before sunup.” I hope you will not share that feeling before I have finished. One cannot, of course, escape a feeling of deep
Presented at the Forty-jijih Annual Meeting Co& Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, Beach, Oregon, September 26-30, 1978.
of the Pa& Gleneden
Reprint requests: Dr. William J. Dignam, Department of Obstetrics and Gwecoloev. Uniuenitv of California Los Angeles Medica
Obstetrics and Gynecology volume 134 number 2
15, 1979
MAY
Transactions of the Forty-fifth Annual Meetiirg of the Pacific Coast Obstetrical and Gynecological Society
Our successors Presidential WILLIAM
J.
address DIGNAM,
M.D.
Los Angeles, California
“SPEECHES ARE like babies-easy to conceive but hard to deliver” (anonymous) is an oft-repeated quotation, or as Smith’ would have it: “Many physicians would prefer passing a small kidney stone to presenting a paper.” I suppose that such concerns may well have application when one is addressing a group of strangers, and would-be critics, but they hardly apply to the presidential address of our society. Fortunately our society gives great latitude to its President regarding the type of address which is/acceptable and it is, indeed, a gre.at privilege and pleasure to be able to share a few thoughts with such a distinguished group of warm and l.oyal friends. I have chosen to comment upon the influences which are shaping the young gynecologists of our day, as I see them. I shall be brief, mindful of the warning of Southgate,’ “Unfortunately, too many authors write as though they will never have another chance-and they are correct.” The laconic Smith’ says, “There are many ways to deliver papers, the best way is to toss them on the front porch before sunup.” I hope you will not share that feeling before I have finished. One cannot, of course, escape a feeling of deep
Presented at the Forty-jijih Annual Meeting Co& Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, Beach, Oregon, September 26-30, 1978.
of the Pa& Gleneden
Reprint requests: Dr. William J. Dignam, Department of Obstetrics and Gwecoloev. Uniuenitv of California Los Angeles Medica
