This isn't a large question. Because of the users we have here, I think we could all benefit from short sharp tips to edit our own words.
In this topic, can you provide advice on how to curate yourself when you throw words in speech and on 'paper'.
Links to 'speechcraft' sources are appreciated.
I'll start:
- Take a second to think about how someone else would hear your words if they were you. (rule 0)
- Curate and cut your words before you throw them.
- "Brevity is the soul of wit" - Hamlet - Shakespeare.
Jump in the discussion.
No email address required.
Notes -
User flair checks out.
Seriously, though, excellent quote by Lewis.
My additional advice is that if you want to be a good orator, know what that means--have an idea what you think is good, and explore why it's good, or why you think that said orator is good at it.
Christopher Hitchens was, to my way of thinking, an excellent speaker, as was James Baldwin, and in very similar ways. We no longer have anyone like Hitch, alas, though some may come close at times. This is not to say I agreed with Hitchens (or Baldwin) on all or even most of what he spoke or wrote about. But their skills were undeniable.
Hitchens
Baldwin
Each speaks with a music, and each uses various tried-and-true rhetorical devices {<--PDF warning} in speaking, and quite naturally, without, almost, seeming to think about it at all, or plan in any way what word comes next.
Writing well is another game, but related. And each (speaking, writing) is bound by the context of topic and audience. Edit: warning not warming
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