The voice (ghosa) is the sound made through the mouth while speaking or singing. The sound of the voice is intimately connected with one's physical and psychological state. Anxiety or excitement can produce a high-pitched, rapidly fluctuating voice. Anger, fear or depression can produce a strangled, shrieking sound or alternatively a low, threatening one. The Buddha had a particularly beautiful voice which reflected his deep inner stillness and warm compassion and this must have made his talks even more appealing. It is said to have had eight characteristics; it was distinct (vissaññha) and clear (vi¤¤eyya), sweet (ma¤ju) and pleasant (savanãya), well-rounded (bindu) and flowing (avisàri), deep (gambhãra) and sonorous (ninnàdi). One observer noticed that after the Buddha's talks were over the audience would get up and leave reluctantly, keeping their eyes on him (M.II,140).