This Is the Voice

The human voice is the most efficient and effective means of communication ever devised, and John Colapinto's book explores its unique sonic signature and its impact on our species, culture, and each one of us. He argues that our ability to speak is what made us the dominant species on the planet and shows us why the voice is the most complex and intricate activity humans can perform. He also travels up the Amazon to meet the Piraha, a reclusive tribe whose singular language can help us hear how melodic principles underpin every word we utter, and heads up to Harvard to see how professional voices are helped and healed.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2021
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

A New York Times bestselling writer delves into the profound significance of our unique sonic signature, shedding light on the essence of our species, culture, and individual identities. This groundbreaking topic, long overdue its own dedicated book, finally receives the attention it deserves.

John Colapinto, a master of storytelling, takes us on a captivating journey through the origins and evolution of the human voice, unraveling the secrets that have shaped our existence. From its humble beginnings in the lungs of lungfish millions of years ago, he guides us through the voices remarkable journey, encompassing the talents of renowned figures such as Pavoratti, Martin Luther King Jr., and Beyoncé. Along the way, he unveils the voice as the most efficient, effective means of communication ever devised, capable of transcending barriers of direction, weather, and even darkness. Colapinto delves into the intricate complexities of speech, revealing it as the pinnacle of human expression. He explores the Amazon, encountering the reclusive Piraha tribe whose singular language possesses a melodic quality unlike any other. He visits Harvard, where professional voices are nurtured and healed, and witnesses how demagogues wield their voices as powerful weapons.

What sets this book apart is its intimate nature, inviting readers to actively engage with the subject matter. Colapinto's insights are grounded in scientific research and personal experiences, making them accessible and relatable. He encourages us to pay attention to our own voices, recognizing them as powerful tools for communication and self-expression. Through his storytelling, Colapinto invites us to explore the profound connection between our voices and our identities, urging us to embrace the beauty and power of our unique sonic signature.

In conclusion, John Colapinto's "The Voice in the Room" is a masterpiece that explores the human voice in all its glory. With his artistry and expertise, Colapinto provides a comprehensive and captivating exploration of this remarkable phenomenon, offering insights that are both scientific and personal. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in language, communication, and the profound impact of our voices on our lives and the world around us.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 163 x 239 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982128746