While we’ve previously covered tips to help with writing a eulogy, one of the common questions we hear is: “How long should a eulogy be?”

As is often the case with farewelling a loved one, there is no objective ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way of doing things.

Some will no doubt feel that a eulogy from a particular person for a particular individual should be very concise, whereas a eulogy given by a different person for that same individual should be longer.

There are multiple factors at play here—there’s the relationship of the person giving the eulogy to the deceased, there’s the emotional state and public speaking confidence of the person giving the eulogy, and there’s the personality no longer with us. What would they have wanted?

It can be a tricky balancing act. That said, from our years of experience arranging and running funerals, we often find that 5-10 minutes is the sweet spot for many when celebrating the life of their departed—this seems to allow enough time for meaningful reflection without lingering too long—but this is by no means a hard rule that must be followed.

Every life is unique. Every person giving a eulogy is unique. Every eulogy should be unique.

In general, brevity while maintaining respect is the aim.

Remember that the eulogy given at the funeral is a speech given to an audience—you may personally wish to speak at length, but this could disengage those in attendance.

Focus on engaging those attending, and do your best to capture the spirit of your loved one without necessarily giving a beat-by-beat account of their entire life.

It’s also important to practice your eulogy beforehand. This can help with nerves and managing grief, and gives you a better understanding of how long your eulogy is likely to be (reading speed seldom matches talking speed!).

Need help determining how long should a eulogy be? Our understanding team at Mattiske Funerals can help you craft the perfect eulogy, so contact us today to learn more about how we can help.