Malcolm X was sensitive in his use of language with strong sense of what appropriate for his audience, switching register to suit the situation. Frequently he expressed himself in a formal register to signify respect and seriousness, yet he was also able to interweave colloquial language to show a common cultural identity with his audience. But even in formal mode, his lexis is kept simple to avoid semantic and psychological barriers, as in the following quotation:
“You can’t separate peace from freedom because none can be at peace unless he has his freedom”.
Often, he uses repetitions to add emphasis and to create memorable phrases. These repetitions can involve skilfully paying with the meaning of words, as in
“We didn’t land on Plymouth rock, Plymouth rock landed on us”.
Malcolm X’s NVC skills were also a powerful part of his communication. His use of facial expression helped to show empathy and understanding with the audience, his “angry” face often employed to reflect his audience’s anger.
He wore smart dark suits that carried connations of power and respectability. More informal dress codes could have proved to be a psychological barrier between him and his audience, signifying lack of respect for them
His eye contact was similarly a strong factor building rapport.
Turning to Nelson Mandela, I found that, though he uses much more self-contained NVC and language, in terms of self-presentation, in some ways he is very similar to Malcolm X. Nelson Mandela also shows the ability to keep a common register, and drawn upon the vernacular. Here to show common bond, he will speak local languages.
As well as rhetorical involvement strategies, Nelson Mandela use the technique of repetition:
“I dream of unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve problems. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests.”
Nelson Mandela restrained body language radiates authority. He also wears a smart dark suits to conveying respectability and authority to a worldwide audiences. Though, as with his language he is able to don casual dress to show solidarity. Famously he wore a Springbok shirt at the rugby union World Cup in Johannesburg.
In conclusion, both Malcolm X and Nelson Mandela have powerful personas which are attractive to their audiences. Both are able to demonstrate authority by posture and appropriate dress codes. They build a rapport with their audience by keeping their register accessible by at times, switching the way they speak to strengthen mutual identification with their audience. They have very different personalities but exhibit essentially similar presentational skills awareness.