Vocal Voices

Do you remember the 3/4 profile feet apart 'power stance' used to make one look strong and bold as employed by Sajid Javed and Liz Truss, and others, that caused us all so much amusement? Well there are some new(ish) versions of these psychological devices gaining popularity among experts, journalists and commentators alike.

Firstly there's the pursing of the lips, lowering of the voice, and pushing the head forward to make 'a really strong point' about a subject. Then there is the shaking or nodding of the head to emphasise that what is being said is negative or positive and needs to be heeded. And finally we have the pushing out and shaking of the hands with widely splayed fingers as a physical metaphor for grabbing us by the shoulders to shake some sense into us. I understand that psychologists train people in these methods.... and get well paid for doing so.

And on another psychological note: Now that you know these wonderful things they are in your head and you will never be able to un-notice them ever again. Happy news watching!

Nothing said about adopting a triangular stance and sticking your head in the sand, then?

Mind you, I have always wondered about the 5 second death stare that ITN newscasters (of both sexes) invariably use before the start of any bulletin ….

Blissfully broadcast news free.

<Lowers voice> Not many replies, but I have screwed up a lot of viewing, especially for you newshounds <nods, shakes, waves>.

The male presenters on Look North have been doing this for ages. They gurn, speak dramatically, gesture wildly with their hands - it's like watching Sir Jasper in a Victorian melodrama.
Just ridiculous.

You are certainly not selling me on switching the free sat box to live viewing and watching the news...

One of the few things I watch live are the elections.