As with all Jane Austen's novels, Persuasion draws much of its appeal from the author's talent for observation and for satire. Notice first how the characters reveal their personalities as much through their speech - both in their choice of words or phrases - as through their actions. Then compare this to the way that Austen herself, either through Anne Elliot or in her role of narrator, condemns or praises her characters. While the story-line is genteel, the tone is one of amused mockery and sharp indignation. It is often her use of one small, seemingly insignificant word or phrase that indicates her true feelings.