The Elements of Eloquence: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Elements of Eloquence, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Memorable lines follow patterns
Forsyth argues that the most memorable phrases in English, from Shakespeare to pop songs, often use figures of rhetoric.
These are techniques for arranging words that can be learned. Seeing the pattern makes the trick easier to copy.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Rhetoric was once taught
Forsyth explains that schoolboys in Shakespeare's time studied figures of rhetoric.
Shakespeare, he argues, learned his craft partly this way. In his view, such training gave writers of that age a rich set of tools they could use at will.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Sounds repeat for effect
Forsyth describes alliteration, repeating the same opening sound in nearby words.
It makes phrases catchy. A tongue-twisting line often sticks in the mind because the repeated sound gives it rhythm. Forsyth shows it appears in songs, slogans and poetry.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Reversing words creates impact
Forsyth describes chiasmus, in which words are repeated in reverse order.
It gives phrases a pleasing balance. The two halves mirror each other, so the line feels neat and easy to remember. Forsyth finds it in speeches and sayings.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Opposites sharpen meaning
Forsyth describes antithesis, placing contrasting ideas side by side.
The contrast makes each clearer. Setting a hot idea next to a cold one makes both stand out more clearly. Forsyth points to many famous sentences built on this pairing.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Unusual order draws attention
Forsyth describes hyperbaton, changing the normal order of words.
It can make a line stand out. A surprising word order makes the reader slow down and notice the line. Used carefully, it adds colour.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Three is satisfying
Forsyth describes the tricolon, a series of three parts.
Groups of three feel complete. A list of three gives a sense of rhythm and finish, which is why speeches and slogans use it so often.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Eloquence can be learned
Forsyth argues that anyone can use these techniques to make their own writing more memorable.
He says that learning the names and shapes of these devices gives writers a toolkit they can practise with.
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