The Need for Words: Voice and the Text

Patsy Rodenburg explores how we speak, what we speak and the impact of the spoken word. As one of the world's leading voice coaches, she describes practical ways to approach language, and uses Shakespeare, Romantic poetry, modern prose and a range of other texts to help each of us discover our own unique need for words.

In Part One the author attacks the myth that there is only one correct way to speak by clearing away the blocks that can make language inaccessible. Part Two, a series of language and text exercises, connects the voice to the shape and quality of individual words and phrases.

Drawing on the author's time spent coaching in the worlds of business and politics, this new edition reflects on how the way we use words has changed since the book was first published. It brings a renewed focus on the language of power – spoken in the worlds of politicians and company directors – which will give readers an insight into the potency of clear, direct communication. Finally, new language exercises provide readers with unmediated access to this new research, allowing them to practice and master the language and words that drive the modern world.

Patsy Rodenburg is Professor of Text and Poetry at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London and was formerly at the Royal National Theatre where she created the voice department. Patsy has worked with many prestigious theatre companies including the Royal Shakespeare Company. Her artistic home in New York is at the Michael Howard Studios.
Patsy has worked regularly with some of the best-known actors and biggest names in theatre, film and television including: Daniel Craig, Orlando Bloom, Paapa Essiedu, Nicole Kidman, Rachel Weisz, Emily Watson, Jude Law, Tom Wilkinson, Hugh Jackman, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cate Blanchett, Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen