If you happen to find it hard to have sustained…
“If you happen to find it hard to have sustained conversations, try keeping your voice up at the end of the sentence. There is a charming graciousness in doing so, for it seems to say that you do not think your remarks are the last words to be said on the subject. It prevents you from seeming opinionated. How men dislike an opinionated woman! No one really likes her! To keep your voice up sounds as though you are interested in other people's ideas. The subject is still open!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Raising intonation at sentence ends signals openness, preventing perceived arrogance and encouraging dialogue.
In simple terms: Up‑tone shows interest, avoids sounding dogmatic.
Use rising tone to invite discussion.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- debates
- teaching
- networking events
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your speech pattern affect others?
- Can you adapt tone for different audiences?
May be misinterpreted in cultures favoring flat intonation.