The Elements of Eloquence by Mark Forsyth
In an age unhealthily obsessed with substance, this is a book on the importance of pure style. Mark Forsyth gives us his idiosyncratic, erudite and brilliantly funny new book into turning the perfect English phrase.
His blog is a weekly favourite of mine, catch it here:
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 and also unpicks how and why we use them. He enlightens and burnishes simple ideas until they shine and shows us time and time again what makes a good line so good, and what it takes to makes a ordinary line tremendous. His books are interesting, informative and delicious indulgence Forsyth is a real treat to read and i always feel like i’ve learned something useless from his books, which is simply perfect.
He makes my conversation more sparkly, my wit deeper and gives me insight into the background and murky past of words, and my friends all love this of course, he may also make me more attractive although this might just be the triumph of my self delusion brought on by all the clever stuff crammed in between this elegant cover. I read him only for my own pleasure, and it is a pleasure to open his books and read such a labour of love.
See this charming speaker talk about the book here:
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.
A lesson more than half the queens in Brighton would do well to learn although Lola already has it worked out with panache!
This is the perfect gift for a lover of words in your life, a kind gift to a stranger on the bus or even if you fancy a little light self polishing you could buy it for yourself. Go on, indulge yourself.
Out Now
£12.99
Hardback
For more information or to buy this charming book see this rather comprehensive online book shop here:
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