Chapter 16 Chapter 15 Concise and Refined: A Word Worth a Tael of Gold

Gorky once said: "There is the greatest philosophy in concise language." In today's information age, people's pace of life has been greatly accelerated.People don't like those long, complicated, red-tape phrases with boots and hats.If you want to speak concisely and clearly, you must practice a lot to make your vocabulary rich and your thinking clear.Because of the lack of words, the expression must be incoherent and dry; the thinking is fuzzy, the expression must be incoherent, and it is a waste of words.Therefore, when speaking, the leader should ask himself to keep a long story short, to "screen" and "filter" out the most incisive, appropriate expressive words and sentences, and to express profound connotations with omitted language as much as possible.

On July 1, 1863, a decisive battle in the American Civil War began at Gettysburg near Washington.After 3 days of fierce fighting, the northern troops won a complete victory.After the war, Pennsylvania and several other states decided to jointly establish the National Martyrs Cemetery in Gettysburg, where all the soldiers who died were buried. On November 19, 1863, the inauguration ceremony of the cemetery was held, and American President Lincoln was invited to give a speech.This was very difficult for Lincoln, because the keynote speaker of this ceremony was Everett, and Lincoln was only invited to "speak a few appropriate words" after Ai because of his status as president.Everett was not only a famous statesman and professor, but also recognized as the most capable orator in the United States at that time, especially good at the speech at the memorial ceremony. At this ceremony, his two-hour speech , It is indeed wonderful.

In this case, how can we establish a good relationship with the audience and finally win their applause?Lincoln decided that simplicity won.It turned out that Lincoln was a big success.Although his speech was only 10 sentences, and it took only two minutes from the stage to the stage, the applause lasted for 10 minutes.Lincoln's speech not only won the warm welcome of more than 10,000 audience present, but also caused a sensation in the whole country.The newspaper at the time commented: "This short speech is priceless, with deep feelings, concentrated thoughts, concise diction, and every word and sentence is very simple and elegant. The writing is completely flawless and completely beyond people's expectations." That is Ivor Leiter himself wrote to Lincoln the next day: "It took me two hours to finally get to the central idea you explained, but you made it clear in just two minutes." An excellent speech was collected in the library, cast into a bronze inscription and deposited in Oxford University, as the highest model of English speech.

Lincoln's speech was a great success, which gave us a revelation: concise and clear language will make speaking more attractive. 1. History's lengthy record of speeches In interpersonal communication, in order to obtain a better effect, the language must be concise and clear, so that the listener can obtain more and useful information in a relatively short period of time. History has recorded some lengthy records of speeches which by no means can be called excellent.For example, in 1933, a U.S. senator named Eldell argued in the Senate for five days in order to oppose the passage of the bill that "the cases of lynching and torture of blacks should be tried in federal courts".A reporter counted: He walked 75 kilometers on the podium, made a total of 10,000 gestures, ate 300 sandwiches, and drank 40 liters of refreshing drinks.

In 1957, Strom ?Thurmond gave a speech to block the passage of the "Civil Rights Act", which lasted 24 hours and 18 minutes, but was defeated. In 1912, a war broke out between Britain and the United States. A congressman used a marathon speech to prevent the passage of a resolution declaring war on Britain.Until the flames of war burned home, the situation was imminent, but the congressman was still chattering.In the middle of the night, there was a lot of snoring in the auditorium. In the end, a congressman was quick and wise and threw a spittoon on the speaker's head, which ended the debate and passed the resolution to declare war.

2. All speech masters cherish words like gold "Don't talk too much, express your ideas well." If you don't want to be annoying, every word is concise and powerful, which can make people not lose interest; redundant words, nagging, without the point, will be boring.In the history of China and foreign countries, many speech masters cherish their words like gold, and their words are concise and to the point. They also left many precious chapters, becoming a typical example of "eloquent speakers with few words".for example: The shortest presidential inaugural address, that of President Washington in 1793, is famous all over the world with only 135 words.

Engels' speech at Marx's grave was only 1,260 words long. Lenin's speech at the unveiling ceremony of the monument to Marx and Engels was only 552 words long. Stalin's important radio speech against the German fascist invasion on July 3, 1941 was only 3,800 words long. Roosevelt's inaugural address was only 985 words long. On July 17, 1984, the 37-year-old new French Prime Minister Laurent?The speech delivered by Fabius was surprisingly short, with only two sentences: "The task of the new government is to modernize the country and unite the French people. To this end, everyone is required to remain calm and show determination. Thank you." The wording is euphemistic. , The content is brilliant.

The speech masters mentioned above are all extraordinary in their ability to control language.At the same time, this also shows that conciseness and clarity play a decisive role in language communication. Concise and clear language can increase the charm of speaking because of the following reasons: First, concise and clear language is a manifestation of superb cognitive ability and thinking ability.The brevity of discourse often reflects the speed and depth of the speaker's analysis of the problem. Second, concise and clear language is the expression of decisive character.People with strong self-confidence and decisiveness in doing things speak decisively and without procrastination.

Third, modern society is fast-paced and has a strong concept of time. Concise speech will give people a feeling of vigorous modern people. Therefore, concise and clear discourse is still a reflection of the style of the times. Fourth, succinct words can not only take up too much time of the listener, but also make the listener feel that the speaker respects him, so people who speak succinctly are popular. We all have this feeling that people who talk nagging, sloppy, sloppy, and use empty words are very annoying.A "Mr. Shuo" once said in a letter to his family: "...I'm going back next month. If it's not the first day, it's the second day; if it's not the second day, it's the third day; if it's not the third day, it's the fourth day; if it's not the fourth day, it's the fifth day; if it's not the fifth day, it's the sixth , if it is not on the sixth day, it will be on the seventh day, if it is not on the seventh day, it will be on the eighth day, if it is not on the eighth day, it will be on the ninth day... If it is not on the 28th, it will be on the 29th. The reason why you don't write 30 is because the moon is small... ..."

"Mr. Suo" this letter can be shortened to "I will return home next month", but it is so long, anyone who reads it will find it dull and disgusting.Although this is just a joke, it also tells us a profound truth: talking will lose its charm. Many instigated people are often confused because of emotional agitation, and their language expressions are inverted and unclear.Therefore, in order to speak concisely and clearly, leaders must work hard on both thinking and language, practice constantly, master skills, and make proper use of them. 1. Churchill's speech In 1948, Oxford University held a "Secret of Success" lecture, and invited the great Churchill, whose reputation had reached its peak at that time, to give a speech.The media started hyping it three months ago, and people from all walks of life are eagerly waiting and looking forward to it.

This day finally arrived, and the venue was crowded with people, and nothing could get through.All major news organizations around the world are here.People are ready to listen to the success secret of this great statesman, diplomat, and writer (Churchill won the Nobel Prize for Literature). After stopped the thundering applause of everyone with gesture, Churchill said: "I have three secrets of success: firstly, never give up; secondly, never, never give up; thirdly, never, never, never give up." Never give up! My speech is over." After finishing speaking, he walked off the stage. After a minute of silence in the venue, warm applause broke out, which lasted for a long time. 2. Answers from former presidents A young man was elected president of the bank at the age of 28.He never thought that he would become the president, let alone imagine that he could take up this position at such a young age.One day, he was talking to the chairman of the shareholder meeting, the former president.He said: "As you know, I have just been appointed President, which is a daunting task. I would very much like your advice based on your own many years of experience." The older former president looked at the new president sitting in front of him, smiled, and quickly answered in six words: "Make the right decision." Looking forward to further advice, the young president said: "Your advice is very helpful. I am honored and grateful to have your help. But could you please elaborate? I I really need your help so I can make the right decision." But this wise old man cherished his words like gold, so he still answered very simply: "Experience." Still confused, the new president asked again, "Yeah, that's why I'm here today. I don't have the experience I need, how do I get it?" The old man laughed silently, but still concluded with short and concise words: "Wrong decision." 1. Be as concise as possible. The more concise the speech, the better. Some people say a lot when describing a thing, but they still can't express what they mean, so that the listener spends a lot of time and energy, and still doesn't know what he wants to explain.If you have this defect, you must correct it yourself.The best way to correct it is to make a preliminary plan in your mind before speaking, and then speak out what you plan to say. 2. Do not overlap too much in terminology. In Chinese, sometimes it is necessary to use refrain to attract others' attention or to strengthen the tone.However, if the refrain is abused, it can become cumbersome.For example, many people often say when they are puzzled: "Why why?" In fact, one "why" is enough to express your doubts, why add one more?Some people often say "good, good" when they promise others something, and say it several times in a row.In fact, saying "good" is enough. 3. The same words should not be used too often. The listener always expects the speaker's language to be rich and colorful.Although we don't have to create a new vocabulary for every word, as some celebrities say, we should also try to diversify the expression within the scope of the permit, and don't use a noun too frequently.Even if it is a very novel word, if you repeat it several times or a dozen times in a few minutes, people will lose the novelty of it and develop a kind of boredom with it. 4. Avoid mantras. Some leaders like to say mantra in conversation, words such as "no comment", "absolutely" and "no problem" are almost blurted out.Regardless of whether these words are related to the content of the speech, if this kind of mantra is spoken too much, it will not only affect the effect of speaking, but also be easily regarded as a laughing stock by others.Therefore, such mantras should be determined not to say. 5. Avoid vulgar words. As the saying goes: "Words are the clothes of a person's knowledge and character." If a person with a dignified appearance and a noble appearance utters vulgar words as soon as he opens his mouth, the admiration for him will disappear immediately.In fact, quite a few of these people are not of bad academic character, but have acquired this bad habit that is difficult to change in the process of pursuing the novelty and playfulness of language.Just think about it, in front of a stranger, what would he think if you said something vulgar?He will not necessarily think that this is a matter of habit, but may think that you are an uncultivated and unsociable person. 6. Don't abuse terminology. Vulgar words should not be used, and words that are too profound, such as technical terms, should not be used too often.If it is not the same scholar who discusses academic issues or has to use, excessive use of technical terms, even if you use them properly, it will give others a sense of mystification. The above points are just a few problems that are easy to be noticed by people, and those more obscure problems still depend on you to try to figure out and overcome them in practice.If you can speak concisely, vividly, elegantly and appropriately, you may become a social star and a good speaker. A successful speech must avoid superfluous words. Have any of the readers experienced a lot of miscellaneous speeches without any focus or understanding? The following is a polite speech to all the guests by a host who is the leader of a company in front of a sumptuous lunch.After you've read the manuscript, think about how to remove redundant words. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen: First of all, let me say hello to everyone. Since I usually take care of you, I have always hoped to have the opportunity to repay and express my gratitude.Therefore, I specially invite you to attend this reception today.It really makes me feel very lucky that everyone took time out of their busy schedules to come here, and I would like to express my gratitude here. (first paragraph) It's impolite to take advantage of today's opportunity to talk about business, but you can't help yourself. Please accept my apology first.The new product that our company has painstakingly researched for several years has been successfully developed, and it is in mass production. In the future, we will need your help when we will vigorously promote it in the market, so we specially set up a banquet to express our hearts. (second paragraph) In the past, many new products have been sold by you, and many orders have been received.Our company can have 100% confidence and certainty in the sales of finished products, which is a gift from everyone. For this, our company is very grateful.Now I trust you all again, and hope to promote sales for new products.Anyway, please allow me to ask you again. (third paragraph) As for the new product, it has two advantages over similar products, one is... and the other is... (fourth paragraph) To be honest, with these advantages, it is a matter of course that new products can be well received.In order to make consumers aware of this product, our company has vigorously promoted it through mass communication tools, such as TV and radio, but the most thorough method still relies on direct sales, so please do your best to help. (fifth paragraph) I would like to trouble everyone to make a special trip to attend the banquet today, but due to poor preparation, I could not entertain you with all my heart, so I have hastily prepared thin wine and rough vegetables, please drink slowly and talk openly. (sixth paragraph) Lala miscellaneous said a lot of words, I am very sorry, please forgive my rudeness.Finally, thank you once again for your concern and care for us.Now I would like to express my 120,000 thanks with humble words, and wish you all the best in your career and a happy spirit. (seventh paragraph) After reading this lecture note, what do you think should be deleted?Do redundant words in paragraphs 3, 5, 6, and 7 need to be deleted?Please read carefully.Judging from the text, it should be said to be very detailed, so why do you need to delete it?Please think carefully. After the Russo-Japanese War, when the famous Japanese General Teru Nogi was invited to give a speech, he did not stand on the podium but stood in front of the audience and said: "Masters! I am the murderer who killed your brothers..." After finishing this short sentence At the words, Nogi Teru's tears welled up in his eyes, and he couldn't continue.However, at this time, the audience was silent, everyone was moved, and the scene was solemn and touching. We can learn from Nogi Teru's speech method and delete unnecessary prefaces or general sentences. Listen carefully. In the sentences that use polite words, the following words and sentences often appear: It is a great honor to be named to give a speech suddenly... The eloquence is very poor, and because I am not used to... In front of elders who are more eloquent than me, I feel that I have exceeded my authority... My eloquence is extremely poor, I have wronged everyone... Stuttering, I actually have the opportunity to stand on the stage, and I feel deeply ashamed... Common endings: Few words to end my words... These are my humble words to greet you all... Thank you so much for listening... So sorry for wasting everyone's precious time...  Lala Zaza has no system, I hereby apologize... The Wright brothers, the aviators who became famous for inventing the airplane, gave a very brief speech at the celebration.He said: "Gentlemen and ladies, parrots, the most talkative of birds, are flightless, and I am not. Thank you!" second inaugural speech 1793 fellow countrymen: I have once again been called upon by the Voice of the Fatherland to perform various functions as the supreme head of our country.My heart is overwhelmed by this remarkable honor, and the high hopes that a united American people have placed in me.When the right opportunity comes, I will try to express this feeling. According to the requirements of the Constitution, the oath of office should be taken before formally exercising the powers of the president.I hereby make the following oath in the presence of all of you, that if, during my administration, any voluntary or willful violation of the prohibitions concerning the presidency is discovered, I am willing to suffer today, in addition to the penalties prescribed by the Constitution. The condemnation of all those who attended this solemn ceremony. (Introduction to George Washington: 1789~1797, the first president of the United States, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War. He worked as a land surveyor in his early years. He participated in the Seven Years War, won the rank of lieutenant colonel and colonel, and accumulated experience in military command. 1775 On July 3, 1989, Washington became the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Through the battles of Trenton, Princeton and York, he defeated the British army and won the North American War of Independence. In 1789, he was elected as the first president of the United States. In 1793 , was re-elected president. On September 17, 1796, he issued a farewell speech, saying that he would no longer serve as president. Thus creating an example in American history of abandoning a lifelong president and peacefully transferring power. Because of his significant contribution to American independence, he was honored as the Father of the nation.)