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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

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)
All stars
Most relevant
This is a very practical text on how to write more compellingly, using engaging stories and amusing delivery to highlight what are actually very classical techniques ... All in bite-sized chunks of information

Perfect for word Geeks

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For some reason I expected this book to be about etymology. It isn't. When the narrator informed me the book was about the figures of rhetoric, I couldn't have been less interested. Although the idea sounded dull, I kept listening. I absolutely loved this book. I'll probably listen to it again, and again. It's fascinating, informative and full of things you feel you'll actually end up using (evidently not in this review).
What I learned most, is how flexible English really is. How impact is more important than correctness, even in writing. A must-have for lovers of our language.

Surprised: In A Good Way

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Beautifully written and superbly read book that is a joy to listen to. Highly recommended.

Very clever and witty

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The way every chapter led onto the next was a lovely touch. Kudos, writer (15 word limit attempt being attempted)

Exactly what I was looking for

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The book and the reading are brilliant. Absolutely brilliant. Funny and engaging and very far from a dry book on language. Lots of contemporary examples and one chapter linking to the next. Loved it and intend to go back to it more than once.

Must read/listen to anyone passionate about language

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