Vocal Fry 2

When last we met, my topic was “Vocal Fry” - that low energy, guttural sound that resembles the puttering emitted by a dying lawn mower.  I’ve heard it for years, but ever since reading that this phenomenon, craze, habit, whatever you want to call it has a name, I’ve become hyper aware of its prevalence in young women AND men. I was standing in a movie line recently and heard what I thought was four young women behind me, who to my surprise, turned out to be male!  What was really disheartening was how interchangeable the “personalities” were.  I found it difficult to distinguish one from the other. Nor did I detect much enthusiasm, although the topic was fairly interesting. 

            Individuality, especially in young people, has always seemed like a badge of honor: to stand apart from our families, have a voice, a presence, be heard… all the while, balanced with a desire to fit in and belong with one’s own age and social group.  I think of high school and how we struggle to fit in.  It is simply human nature to want a sense of community- to belong.  In my coaching work, I find that everyone wants to believe that he or she is seen and heard- recognized for who they are or what they have to offer. 

            This desire gets muddied when the voice sounds blasé and wimpy… weak.  I am a broken record when it comes to Intention.  What is the intention behind the words?  What do you really hope to accomplish?  What is the message behind the message? 

            Vocal Fry destroys more than vocal cords.  It diminishes the intention, muddies the message and confuses the listener.  I found myself thinking as I listened in on the movie line conversation, “Do you really believe what you are saying?”  It sounded like something being regurgitated in more ways than one.