In devising an inventional scheme for considering black communication behavior with possible implications for a more general theory, four constituents must be considered: frame of mind, scope of context, structure of code, and delivery of message. The concepts of rhythm and styling seem indicative of the black frame of mind, while the contextual scope of black language and communication is contained within the characteristic practices resulting from a special experience, environment, and heritage. Three components to code structuring in black American rhetorical behavior include a lyrical quality, vocal artifact, and indirection (a circuitous manner of approaching the central issues of a subject). In the delivery of a speech, a prime consideration is the impact it will have upon the audience, so that a black speaker is sensitive to the situation and to the audience. There is a need to accept these constituents of black communication patterns to enable the concept of language in American society to be extended. (JM)