Rhetoric Tip #13: Will You Read My Book?
"Raise a glass to freedom—something they can never take away"
“Dear Sir or Madam, will you read my book?
It took me years to write—will you take a look?”
—The Beatles, “Paperback Writer”
That Beatles lyric captures exactly how it feels to publish something that’s lived inside you for years. In my case, it’s Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders, which officially launches on September 2. (Kindle .99c sale for 7 days, so act now.)
We live in a culture that tells us to rush to the next task. To ship, then hustle, then repeat. I’ve fallen into this cycle more often than I’d like to admit. But celebration is a form of self-respect.
So before diving into promotion, podcast appearances, and presentations, … I’m celebrating. I’m hitting pause. I’m smiling and raising a glass.
“Raise a glass to freedom—
Something they can never take away
No matter what they tell you”
—“The Story of Tonight,” from Hamilton: An American Musical, Lin-Manuel Miranda
Why is this so important? Because self-esteem comes from effort and achievement. It is built in stages:
· Self-esteem says: I can.
· Pride says: I have.
· Celebration is the bridge between the two.
You can’t expect others to rally around your message if you haven’t acknowledged your own accomplishment first. The band Rush, who created the soundtrack of my life, nails this joyous feeling in these lyrics:
“Celebrate the moment as it turns into one more
Another chance at victory, another chance to score
The measure of a moment is a difference of degree
Just one little victory—a spirit breaking free”
—Rush, “One Little Victory”
When you reach a milestone, take it in. You climbed. You showed up again and again. That deserves a moment of pride before marching forward.
Now comes the next mission: sharing the message.
My book is more than words on pages. It’s a rallying cry for those who want to speak boldly, persuade ethically, and lead with moral clarity. It’s rooted in the rhetorical legacy of heroes who reshaped the world using Aristotle’s principles of Ethos, Logos, and Pathos.
Coaching Example: From Good to Unforgettable
My dearest,
, recently delivered a presentation that was already very good when she rehearsed it with me ahead of time. She was clear, confident, and personable. But to move it from good to unforgettable, we worked together on structure, timing, and emotional impact.She nailed the talk. As Carrie-Ann exited the stage, several people who’d seen her speak before stopped her to ask, “How did you get so much better?”
Her answer? “Robert’s coaching.” Celebrating that moment—her growth and impact—was as meaningful to me as publishing my book.
Writing Prompt
1. What is your equivalent of raising a glass?
2. Write about one moment you’re proud of but never gave yourself credit for.
3. Celebrate that achievement.
Your Voice of Reason
Speak with courage. Speak with clarity. Speak with purpose. If you want help tightening your message so that it promotes your value-creation and the pride that follows, schedule a call. Let’s shape your next victory together.
And if you’re curious to see what those years of passion, purpose, and persistence look like…Will you read my book? I’d love to hear what it sparks in you.
No promises that I’ll read it, but I bought the paperback.
🙏🏻