All Segments
Meet The Most Under-Rated Writing Professor in America (Ward Farnsworth)
20 segments available
Ward Farnsworth is a law professor and former dean at the University of Texas School of Law who has written popular books about clear thinking, language, and philosophy. His books include Classical English Style and works on rhetoric and legal writing. He’s a genius at making complex ideas simple and useful for everyday life. Enjoy! Get 60 days free Readwise Reader at https://readwise.io/davidperell/ 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:53 Example 1 (King James Bible) 00:07:09 Example 2 (Winston Churchill) 00:11:45 Example 3 (Winston Churchill) 00:15:19 Example 4 (King James Bible) 00:18:18 Example 5 (Abraham Lincoln) 00:22:57 Example 6 (Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.) 00:26:40 Classical English Rhetoric 00:27:40 Example 7 (Abraham Lincoln) 00:29:59 Example 8 (Abraham Lincoln) 00:31:48 The only app I use to read articles [Readwise Reader] 00:33:15 Example 9 (Winston Churchill) 00:35:53 Example 10 (Lloyd Bentsen) 00:38:34 Example 11 (JFK) 00:42:00 Example 12 (Abraham Lincoln) 00:43:40 Example 13 (Henry Fielding - Tom Jones) 00:45:32 Example 14 (King James Bible) 00:47:42 The 3 Techniques, explained 00:52:24 Practical advice for everyone 00:56:08 The ideal writing curriculum Ward Farnsworth http://wardfarnsworth.com/ I also made a website that helps you learn from the best writing of all-time: https://writingexamples.com/ Hey! I’m David Perell and I’m a writer, teacher, and podcaster. I believe writing online is one of the biggest opportunities in the world today. For the first time in human history, everybody can freely share their ideas with a global audience. I seek to help as many people publish their writing online as possible. Follow me Website: https://writeofpassage.com/how-i-write Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-write/id1700171470 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2DjMSboniFAeGA8v9NpoPv X: https://x.com/david_perell
Segments Timeline
The Challenge of Clarity
David Perell introduces the problem of communication in a crowded world, emphasizing the importance of standing out and being remembered. He discusses how historical figures have effectively communicated their ideas, suggesting that studying their methods can provide valuable insights for modern writers.
"David you know what everybody's problem is what Too Many Words If you're trying to say something in public right now and you want to get noticed and you want to get remembered and you want people to s..."
Saxon vs. Latinate Words
Ward Farnsworth explains the duality of the English language, highlighting the distinction between Saxon and Latinate words. He illustrates how choosing simpler, Saxon words can enhance clarity and impact in writing, using examples like 'make' versus 'create' to demonstrate this principle.
"just kill killing show me some examples yeah let's do some examples so if you want to say something really important you say it in Saxon so and God said let there be light and there was light Genesis ..."
The Power of Simplicity in the King James Bible
Farnsworth analyzes the King James Bible's use of simple, Saxon words, particularly in the phrase 'Let there be light.' He argues that the simplicity of language contributes to the profound impact of the text, showcasing how powerful messages can be conveyed through humble words.
"to let me show you a different um example that I know is dear to you David I know you'll enjoy everybody will enjoy this famous words from Winston Churchills let me read it yeah you want to read it yo..."
Winston Churchill's Rhetorical Mastery
Farnsworth examines Winston Churchill's famous speech, 'We shall fight on the beaches,' highlighting the use of repetition as a rhetorical device. He explains how this technique captures attention and emphasizes key points, making the speech memorable and impactful.
"we're doing churo how about this never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few set in the House of Commons a few months after the uh uh the last one this is another of tho..."
The Importance of Word Choice
In this segment, Farnsworth discusses the significance of word choice in writing. He contrasts blunt Saxon words with more polite Latinate alternatives, illustrating how the choice of language can affect tone and clarity in communication.
"yep all right ready for another bring it on back to the bible let me read it go every Kingdom divided against itself is brought to Desolation and every city or house divided against itself shall not s..."
Abraham Lincoln's Eloquence
Farnsworth highlights the eloquence of Abraham Lincoln's speeches, focusing on his use of simple, powerful language. He emphasizes how Lincoln's choice of words resonates with audiences, demonstrating the effectiveness of clear communication in leadership.
"of the Bible a great example is the influence of the King James Bible on Abraham Lincoln who read the Bible I more or less OBS the King James Bible more or less obsessively that in shakes and Lincoln ..."
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.'s Clarity
This segment explores the writing style of Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., showcasing his ability to convey complex ideas with clarity. Farnsworth discusses how Holmes's use of language exemplifies the principles of effective writing.
"right Oliver wend Holmes Jr said this in one of his opinions if there's any principle of the Constitution that more imperatively calls for attachment than any other it is the principle of free thought..."
The Role of Classical English Rhetoric
Farnsworth delves into the principles of classical English rhetoric, explaining how understanding these techniques can enhance writing. He emphasizes the importance of rhetorical devices in crafting compelling narratives.
"right enough of that how about a change a subject we've been talking about sax and and latinate words but if you study rhetoric which is my bag and this is uh if your readers enjoy this sort of thing ..."
The Impact of Repetition in Speech
Continuing the discussion on Churchill, Farnsworth elaborates on the impact of repetition in speeches. He explains how this technique not only emphasizes key points but also engages the audience, making the message more memorable.
"uh speaking of epistrophe I promise you that Lincoln liked it and that he used it elsewhere he even used it in the same speech that this nation shall have a new birth of freedom and that government of..."
Lloyd Bentsen's Memorable Language
Farnsworth analyzes Lloyd Bentsen's famous line from the 1988 vice-presidential debate, discussing how effective language can create lasting impressions. He highlights the importance of clarity and impact in political rhetoric.
"episode I me I mentioned people you can Apprentice yourself to uh Winston Churchill just like Lincoln has a claim to being the the greatest user of the English language and the the history of English ..."
JFK's Inspirational Speech
In this segment, Farnsworth reflects on John F. Kennedy's inaugural address, emphasizing the use of simple yet powerful language. He discusses how Kennedy's words inspired a generation and the importance of clarity in leadership communication.
"beautifully create difference all right here's a more modern example we doing a lot of uh link and and uh chill how about uh Lloyd Benson so he was he was the uh this is just for fun but he was uh sen..."
Lincoln's Lasting Legacy
Farnsworth continues to explore Lincoln's speeches, focusing on how his language choices have left a lasting legacy. He emphasizes the effectiveness of straightforward communication in conveying profound ideas.
"on let's move on I've got another Tool uh that's very practical very interesting very useful this one's known as the Kay asmus now I know you've talked about this before the classic kaym I know you've..."
Henry Fielding's Narrative Style
This segment examines Henry Fielding's narrative style in 'Tom Jones,' highlighting his use of language to engage readers. Farnsworth discusses how Fielding's approach exemplifies effective storytelling techniques.
"since we had a line from Lincoln uh probably 10 minutes I claim not to have controlled events but confess plainly that events have controlled me so this Kay asmus again huh don't you think yeah so I'm..."
The King James Bible Revisited
Farnsworth revisits the King James Bible, emphasizing its linguistic simplicity and power. He discusses how the text's enduring impact is rooted in its clear and accessible language.
"Sun uh here's another kmus I want oh I wanted to uh just keep talking about occasions for a kmus here's an example it's is possible for a man to know something without having been at school as it is t..."
Three Techniques for Effective Writing
Farnsworth outlines three key techniques for effective writing, drawing from historical examples. He emphasizes the importance of clarity, simplicity, and rhetorical devices in crafting compelling narratives.
"example back to where we started okay the Bible oh yeah The Lord's Prayer okay and lead us not into temptation but Deliver Us from Evil now you might never have thought of this as a kmos but it kind o..."
Practical Writing Advice
In this segment, Farnsworth provides practical advice for writers, focusing on how to apply the principles discussed throughout the video. He encourages viewers to embrace simplicity and clarity in their writing.
"said so can you do this for me can you just give me a quick rundown of the three techniques that we've spoken about we started with Anglo-Saxon we spoke about epistrophe we talked a little bit about a..."
Crafting the Ideal Writing Curriculum
Farnsworth concludes by discussing the ideal writing curriculum, emphasizing the importance of teaching clarity and effective communication. He advocates for a focus on timeless principles that can benefit all writers.
"spoken about Churchill speaking to the Brits the Gettysburg address these Grand big topics of course we need rhetoric oh my goodness the people my nation my great nation they need to be inspired they ..."
Lessons from the Gettysburg Address
In this segment, Farnsworth explains the significance of the Gettysburg Address as a model for striking and memorable writing. He emphasizes that understanding its structure and word arrangement can benefit anyone looking to write compelling content, regardless of their writing context. This discussion highlights the universal lessons in rhetoric that can enhance everyday writing.
"answer okay so you're a professor and if you were teaching next semester at UT a class on writing and you said these are the things that people need to focus on these are the main lessons I want to te..."
Crafting a Writing Curriculum
Farnsworth outlines his approach to teaching writing, emphasizing the need for efficiency and clarity as foundational skills. He critiques the notion that good writing is solely about being concise, arguing instead for the inclusion of inspiration and memorability in writing. This segment provides insight into how Farnsworth would structure a writing curriculum to cultivate both technical skills and creative expression.
"and I've taught you know rhetoric classes and part of what I like to do is after we've gone over the basics have students actually imitate have them rewrite um sometimes modern Supreme Court opinions ..."
The Value of Imitation in Learning
In this concluding segment, Farnsworth discusses the role of imitation in developing writing skills. He distinguishes between imitation and influence, advocating for a deep understanding of great writing styles to enhance one's own voice. This conversation reflects on the importance of studying rhetoric and the impact of social media on contemporary writing standards.
"and right now by the way it's often a very bad one that's the issue I think is that one reason you study rhetoric in good English is to give yourself a break from the lousy rhetoric in English that yo..."