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The Elements of Eloquence

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The Elements of Eloquence

By: Mark Forsyth
Narrated by: Simon Shepherd
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About this listen

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.

©2013 Mark Forsyth (P)2014 Audible Studios Art Words, Language & Grammar Witty Funny Feel-Good Thought-Provoking Inspiring

Critic reviews

“Sparkling ... the book offers many pleasures ... I laughed out loud at the examples chosen” (Charles Moore, Daily Telegraph)
“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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I was recommended this book and was sceptical at first, however after the first chapter I was hooked!

Forsyth leads you through rhetoric in an amusing, yet informative way and this was mirrored by a marvellous performance by Simon Shepherd

A fantastic insight into the English language!

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A fascinating, hilarious, highly educational, beautifully read book. Oh dear I have 7 words remaining.

Excellent in every way possible.......

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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

absolutely fantastic

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For eager wordsmiths. Bite-sized lessons in the clever crafting of language. Superbly written, superbly performed. Witty, wonderful, worth it.

Pure rhetorical joy

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This exacting yet irreverent romp through the minutiae of rhetoric and aspects of the spoken word was a joy. Using everything from Shakespeare to pop lyrics to illustrate meaning made the book fascinating and hilarious in equal measure. I listened to audio book and I have to say the reader's delivery hugely added to the humour and my enjoyment.

brilliantly funny

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