As far back as the times of the great philosophers: Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, the power of the word, has been a game changer in human history. Oratory, defines this art, which James (Epistle writer), in his letter, narrows down to “the tongue”.
Comparing it to a spark that lights up the entire wilderness, only helps realize the power contained in oratory.
The written word, in poetry and in narratives, is noted in the Sacred Scriptures; Bhagavad-Gita, the Qur’an, and in the Bible. Years and years have passed since these Holy Works came into being. They have continued to influence people’s ways of thinking, feeling and even acting. They have determined character and world upheavals. These words have continued to influence key decisions leading to life and to death. 
Millions of scholars and preachers have taken to the pulpit to explore, discuss and disseminate the contents of these words. Were it not for the power of the word, these writings would have long gone into oblivion.
In the secular world, names such as Shakespeare continue to rule the world. In Africa, the Wole Soyinkas, Chinua Achebes, Ngugi wa Thiong’os, Walter Rodney, Ali Mazrui, Shaaban Robert and Frantz Fanon among others, have made great marks. Not only have they put into permanency the sad histories that Africans went through, but have painted a true picture of the effect that the devastations had on Africa. Of course these devastations continue to be felt today. If only we would grant them some more justice by listening to their wise counsel. Woe unto the man whose present is not informed by history; his future is certainly bleak!
The word, gains even more sharpness, when paralinguistic components are added to it. These components include, pitch, tempo and tone. Not only does the spoken word turn into power, but its sweetness is there to be savored. The choice of diction of the speaker, the use of right tone, pitch and tempo amidst well-calculated gestures, compound the message into immense persuasion. Lawyers have mastered the art, and with it influenced court verdicts. Deaths and acquittals have thus been realized. Politicians continue to use the power of the spoken word to move crowds. Through their words, populations have been massacred, and imminent violence has been avoided. The power of the preacher in shedding light amidst darkness, and hope amidst despair, has been realized. Through the word, forgiveness and serenity have been realized and with these, peace. Through the spoken word, wealth human and non-human, natural and artificial, has been created and destroyed.
Doomed are they that ignore the power of the spoken word.
While it is an almost inherent talent for some, large numbers have to nurture this competence. Even for those that think it is an inherent power, the 75% of nurturance is needed to perfect the art. Are we surprised then that before joining any formal education, toddlers put so much effort to learn to communicate? What about the many lessons and resources that are used in pursuit of language competencies at primary and secondary levels? All said and done, it is then not surprising that political science exists. In it, understanding of systems is significant. Equally important though, is the ability to use the power of the word to influence minds. For the lawyers, St Paul mentioned of their eloquence. This is nothing but the ability to master language and play with it. It is sophism per excellence. With all these, studies in law are largely sought. As for the pastors there is an increase in the pursuit of studies. A large component of these studies is homiletics for the Catholics and preaching for the protestants. I am not well versed with what other religions call the art. The common denominator of the three, is the ability to persuade. Whether said or not, perception points to the reality that all those that are good at the tongue, riches appear to also listen, and pursue them.
In whatever you undertake, whether it is for individual growth and satisfaction, whether it is at spousal level, at work, or even at the podium, the power of the tongue is critical. For those seeking sustainable futures within different professions, one cannot ignore the power of the tongue.
That is what is referred to as public speaking.
Talk to us and see how together, synergy can be tapped to realize the sky that is the limit.
