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Attention Quote by Jane Austen

“There is something in the eloquence of the pulpit, when it is really eloquence, which is entitled to the highest praise and honour. The preacher who can touch and affect such an heterogeneous mass of hearers, on subjects limited, and long worn thread-bare in all common hands; who can say any thing…” quote by Jane Austen
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“There is something in the eloquence of the pulpit, when it is really eloquence, which is entitled to the highest praise and honour. The preacher who can touch and affect such an heterogeneous mass of hearers, on subjects limited, and long worn thread-bare in all common hands; who can say any thing new or striking, any thing that rouses the attention, without offending the taste, or wearing out the feelings of his hearers, is a man whom one could not (in his public capacity) honour enough.”

Jane Austen

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Preaching, 1805

Effective preaching combines true eloquence with the ability to engage a diverse audience without offending or exhausting them.

In simple terms: Good preaching is clear, fresh, and respectful.

Key Takeaway

Speak with clarity and respect.

Themes

communication eloquence audience respect impact

Mood

respectful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • teaching
  • leadership
  • media
  • politics

Key Concepts

Rhetoric Audience dynamics Ethical persuasion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you keep messages fresh yet respectful?
  • What limits the reach of a speaker?
A Different Perspective

Maintaining novelty without alienating listeners is challenging.

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