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The Elements of Eloquence
- Narrated by: Simon Shepherd
- Length: 5 hrs and 39 mins
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The Elements of Eloquence
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Summary
In an age unhealthily obsessed with substance, this is a book on the importance of pure style, from the best-selling author of The Etymologicon and The Horologicon. From classic poetry to pop lyrics and from the King James Bible to advertising slogans, Mark Forsyth explains the secrets that make a phrase - such as 'Tiger, Tiger, burning bright', or 'To be or not to be' - memorable.
In his inimitably entertaining and witty style he takes apart famous lines and shows how you, too, can write like Shakespeare or Oscar Wilde. Whether you're aiming for literary immortality or just an unforgettable one-liner, The Elements of Eloquence proves that you don't need to have anything to say - you simply need to say it well.
Critic reviews
“An informative but highly entertaining journey through the figures of rhetoric ... Mark Forsyth wears his considerable knowledge lightly. He also writes beautifully.” (David Marsh, Guardian)
“It is good news that the popular author of The Etymologicon should now potter round the rhetorical warehouse at our elbow, commenting on the choicer goods on view, for he is well-informed and amusing.” (Christopher Howse, The Spectator)
“The Elements of Eloquence makes a daunting, potentially boring subject exciting ... Forsyth's wickedly clever, irreverent take on rhetoric should cement his reputation as a virtuoso: it is hard to think of any other book that tackles the topic with such style.” ( South China Morning Post)
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What listeners say about The Elements of Eloquence
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Allard
- 14-08-15
Outstanding insight into English language
What did you like most about The Elements of Eloquence?
It opened my eyes to the linguistic foundations that make or break language. I thoroughly enjoyed it and book provided me with a new understanding of language and what the difference is between various way of expression.
Any additional comments?
Great educational story and excellent narration by Simon Shepherd who made a topic that could easily become boring very interesting until the end.
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7 people found this helpful
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- E.Cowell
- 30-09-19
absolutely fantastic
Mark Forsyth's talent for writing and Simon Shepherd's ability to narrate makes this book a work of art.
Truly insightful and VERY informative, this book is a must read for everyone
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
- Chris K.
- 02-06-21
wonderful
interesting and funny suprising at times the narration is perfect for the subject matter well worth purchasing.
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- Nikir
- 30-06-20
Another great book.
Another great book by Mr Forsyth. And brilliantly read by Mr Shepard. Loved it. From a happy logophile.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- hfffoman
- 02-10-20
Crisply presented, full of excellent advice
I would recommend this to anyone interested in improving their writing, or in just understanding the techniques they are exposed to nearly every day. It is compact, elegant and fascinating.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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- Anonymous User
- 16-03-23
Great book
I liked this book, great material and the performance that matched the material, not always the case.
I learned a lot that I was deprived of at school, but for those of us without a photographic memory.
I would have liked a PDF to go with it, for further review and to digest all the material.
It might just be me but I like lots of paperwork when trying to digest new material.
David P
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- SoulFireMage
- 29-03-17
fantastic, fabulous, funny and fluent!
Best thing I've listened to on audible thus far! Highly recommended, entertaining and eloquent: you'll drive your friends nutty, your partner barmy and your colleagues up the wall!
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11 people found this helpful
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- Dwiver
- 27-08-16
Interesting and funny
Well read interesting and funny like all of this series. I was sad when the book ended.
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6 people found this helpful
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- Dougie
- 02-02-20
English Language ...Bloody marvellous !
A delightful dissection of what we have heard ,hear and say . More of the same please !
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- Michael (UK)
- 17-08-18
Magnificent!
An absolute delight! Superbly written and expertly narrated. A great reference too. Transforms a very dull subject into an informative and entertaining adventure.
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