In Chapters 4 and 14, you learn about nonverbal aspects of speech such as rate, pauses, tone, volume, and pitch. In many cases, these factors can help you use repetition effectively. For example, if you repeat a phrase with an upward inflection of voice followed by a pause, you will help the audience anticipate the next line and enhance their retention of your main points.
In 1851, American abolitionist and women’s rights activist Sojourner Truth delivered an effective and memorable speech at the Women’s Convention in Akron, Ohio. The speech known as “Ain’t I a Woman?” is effective not only because of its powerful message about the evils of slavery and the mistreatment of women but also because Truth’s passionate use of language helped make a lasting impression on her listeners. Consider, for example, her use of repetition, allusion, and comparisons. (See Sample Speech 13.1.)