The silence between

Debussy’s quote suggests that the real meaning of something may be conveyed and enhanced by the space, the silence with which we surround it. A sunset on a busy, dirty city street is lost but seeing the same sun set over a vast mountain panorama is impressive. A photograph by itself may move us somewhat but put it in a large white matte and complementary frame and it gains the importance it deserves.

A speaker can pause either before or after an important point and the audience realizes that this is a critical part of the message. They may lean in to hear the upcoming pearl. Or they may take a second or two to process the valuable words they have just heard.

Pausing, adding space, gives importance to what we say and gives a setting for our viewers or readers to take in our words and ideas. In a visual or slide, space gives similar weight to an element. This is special and we will not crowd it.

In a presentation, a speaker may include a black or blank slide to provide such space. A visual pause, if you will. The audience redirects their attention to the speaker, they may lean in to hear the next words — this could be something very important.

Pay attention to what the space, the silence between the notes, conveys to your audience. It is powerful stuff.