This book investigates how prosodic features, such as intonation and rhythm, function as essential components in the structure and meaning of spoken discourse. Ann Wennerstrom, a scholar in applied linguistics, draws upon extensive research in phonology and conversation analysis to propose a comprehensive framework for integrating prosody into the study of language. By examining how speakers use pitch and stress to signal information status and discourse organization, she provides a systematic method for researchers to analyze the musicality inherent in everyday communication.

Experts in the field of linguistics recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the intersection of phonology and discourse analysis. Scholars frequently note the clarity of the author's framework, which serves as a practical guide for students and researchers alike.