Mutating And Adapting

Out of all the various different techniques the one I consider the most important is style. Style is everything, it is what kind of words you use, what tone, and so on. Therefore, depending on the audience you have to be able to adapt for each circumstance. Doing so is not easy at all, but once you have master it, rhetoric becomes so much easier.

As Heinrich states “In the modern sense of style, we want to stand out from the crowd; in rhetorical sense, we want to fit in”. As we can infer, in order to gain credibility we must make the audience notice us, and also fit in with them, for if they empathize with you it becomes easier to persuade.

The first element in style is the use of proper language. According to your audience you must pick adequate words that suit the occasion. As Aristotle says this very true remark “which makes the uneducated more effective than the educated when addressing popular audiences.” What do you get by using sophisticated words, your audience doesn’t understand? Yes, you might show off your intelligence, but what is your goal to show off or persuade?

Next comes clarity. It is referred to as using concise and to the point information to get your point across. Say what you need to say and not bore the audience. The clearer you are the more credibility you gain, for no one can misunderstand your point.

Vividness or visibility is by the use of words paint the audience a picture of what you want them to see. By using anecdotes and details empathize with your audience and make them feel in their comfort zone.

Decorum is simply fitting in. Act according to your audience to gain points and make them feel like they are similar to you, therefore so can your view points.
Lastly, the use of ornament is mainly cleverness of your words. Saying information that will get the audience thinking, even if it means doubting. This is a step forward and little by little with a good combination of style , you can reach your final destination.

Style is essential for, it is like a prescription it might work for you but not for her. Some strategies work for certain groups, so according to your audience you have to mutate and adapt to your surrounding in order to survive!