There are many styles of talking. SEINFELD identified the low talker whose speech style committed him to wear a puffy shirt on television because he didn't hear what she said. There are also the "fast talkers"," slow talkers", "mumblers", whose lips barely part, and those whose teeth remain clenched while speaking.
I realize that for those with perfect hearing, none of these cause serious hearing and interpretation problems for the listener. However, these days few, even younger people, have perfect hearing. Since the purpose of talking should be to communicate with others, the assumption is that you want to be understood. To this end, let me recommend each of us practice talking at a rate just above the slow talker with a volume midway between the low and the loud talker and, for clarity, with the jaws and lips assisting in the formation of words. If someone smiles when you've informed them that their mother just died, you may be certain they did not understand what you said and you should examine your speaking style.
Putting the rest of the universe aside, when speaking to me, write it down!
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