Channing's Note-Book; Passages from the Unpublished Manuscripts of William Ellery Channing, Selected by His Granddaughter Grace Ellery Channing (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1902 edition. Excerpt: ... Conversation. Studied conversation is most tedious and defeats all its ends. We want in conversation that the heart should flow out. We cannot every moment pronounce a maxim. Converse so that you may draw largely upon other minds. Speak with the animation and elevation of one who hears the great theme. To establish a quick communication between the heart and countenance and voice is what we need. Too often the voice is mere air, charged with no soul, --a mechanical effect. He who governs his tongue is perfectly able to control all his passions. Never talk for show. This rule will almost cut up conversation by the root, --but no matter. The mightiest leaders are those who stir up other souls to the same deep original activity. Eloquence often injures by forcing, not leading, the hearer to reproduce. On common topics we should present the best thoughts which immediately occur to us, in the best language which immediately offers. Simplicity, sincerity, and truth will often be the only commendable qualities. We shall say nothing new or striking. On every topic we may express love to God and man. Our thanks are due to an orator, because he raises us above our ordinary perceptions and feelings--gives us to see with a new eye, to burn with a new fire. He who converses without the idea of displaying himself has made great progress in humility. It should always be one end to benefit those we converse with. If we cannot give much, give little. Unless conversation be pleasing and active, people grow weary and love each other less for meeting. Conversation should flow from the heart, and the tone of the voice as well as the countenance should express affection. A Christian acquainted with God should talk as becomes the acquaintance. A man shows his society.