Communication : intended to obfuscate or to elucidate?

I've noticed how some people use practically the entire verbal artillery available to them. Is their use of obscure words supposed to raise their esteem in the eyes of the listener? Or do they do it unconsciously - talking as if they would to an equal and not talking down? I've often been accused of using jargon or using obscure words myself. In such cases i've found myself surprised (even shocked) that the others didn't know what those words meant. I guess it comes from an inability to change your manner of speech by gauging your audience.

The same goes for writing. I have little sympathy for people who seem to use a thesurus for every word in a sentence! One of the best books i've read is "A Suitable Boy" by Vikram Seth. An amazingly gripping narrative, surprisingly taut, despite its size. His use of prose is the best i have seen in a long time. Yet, it is so easy to read. Maybe that is the true mark of a literary genius - the ability to create wonderful worlds with ordinary words. Another one of my favourites is Wodehouse - the way he seems to conjure up similes and metaphors which are brilliant in their originality and their wit ("he paused, stunned, like a man unexpectedly struck by lightning").

I am trying to cure myself of the habit of speaking the same way to everybody - tailoring your speech according to the audience is necessary for effectiveness, and who knows - it might even help you strike a chord with them if you use their same manner of speech. I am not preaching that we do what our politicians do - i.e. change the content of our speech - let the content (i.e. your thoughts) remain the same - no intellectual treason needed ;-) But change the form !