The one is cause, the other effect. The one is spiritual, the other physical. In

this important particular, animate force differs from inanimate force--the power

of man, coming from within and expressing itself outwardly, is of another sort

from the force of Shimose powder, which awaits some influence from without to

explode it. However susceptive to outside stimuli, the true source of power in

man lies within himself. This may seem like "mere psychology," but it has an

intensely practical bearing on public speaking, as will appear.

 

Not only must we discern the difference between human force and mere physical

force, but we must not confuse its real essence with some of the things that

may--and may not--accompany it. For example, loudness is not force, though force

at times may be attended by noise. Mere roaring never made a good speech, yet

there are moments--moments, mind you, not minutes--when big voice power may be

used with tremendous effect.

 

Nor is violent motion force--yet force may result in violent motion. Hamlet

counseled the players:

 

Nor do not saw the air too much with your hand, thus; but use all gently; for in

the very torrent, tempest, and (as I may say) whirlwind of your passion, you

must acquire and beget a temperance, that may give it smoothness. Oh, it offends

me to the soul, to hear a robustious periwig-pated fellow tear a passion to

tatters, to very rags, to split the ears of the groundlings[2]; who, for the

most part, are capable of nothing but inexplicable dumb show, and noise. I would

have such a fellow whipped for o'er-doing Termagant; it out-herods Herod. Pray