This book investigates how specific linguistic choices and stylistic structures function as tools for persuasion in both spoken and written discourse. Jeanne Fahnestock, a scholar in the field of rhetoric, synthesizes classical rhetorical traditions with modern linguistic and literary analysis. She argues that the mechanics of language—ranging from individual word selection to complex passage construction—are not merely decorative but are fundamental to the efficacy of any argument. By examining a diverse array of texts, the author provides a systematic framework for understanding how style shapes the reception and impact of persuasive communication.

Scholars and students of rhetoric frequently cite this work as a rigorous, foundational text for understanding the intersection of style and argumentation. Readers often note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a comprehensive resource for those seeking to master the technical nuances of persuasive language.