pause, to be effective in some other manner than in that of the boomerang, must

precede or follow a thought that is really worth while, or at least an idea

whose bearing upon the rest of the speech is important.

 

William Pittenger relates in his volume, "Extempore Speech," an instance of the

unconsciously farcical use of the pause by a really great American statesman and

orator. "He had visited Niagara Falls and was to make an oration at Buffalo the

same day, but, unfortunately, he sat too long over the wine after dinner. When

he arose to speak, the oratorical instinct struggled with difficulties, as he

declared, 'Gentlemen, I have been to look upon your mag--mag--magnificent

cataract, one hundred--and forty--seven--feet high! Gentlemen, Greece and Rome

in their palmiest days never had a cataract one hundred--and forty--seven--feet

high!'"

 

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES

 

1. Name four methods for destroying monotony and gaining power in speaking.

 

2. What are the four special effects of pause?

 

3. Note the pauses in a conversation, play, or speech. Were they the best that

could have been used? Illustrate.

 

4. Read aloud selections on pages 50-54, paying special attention to pause.