In language, the smallest units are called graphemes, and these combine to make phonemes which in turn unite to form morphemes, and morphemes collaborate to form words. And words, as we know, are put together in such a way as to communicate a meaningful message which we call a sentence. It's beautiful, isn't it?
Most people take words for granted. Not me. I love them. I like playing with them, using them, and discovering new ones. I love putting them together. I get excited when I hear or read others do it well. I feel proud when I do it.
Yesterday I wrote another chapter in the first draft of what will be my fifth novel. Chapter 37 contains these words: Did she love Angus? Did she want him back? Forgiveness. Easy to say, hard to do. Nice word. Potent word. Terrifying word. The last adjective in that triplet did not come to me immediately, but when it did, I stared at it with a big smile on my face. Forgiveness is a terrifying word.
Today I give thanks for words. Do you have any favourites? I still get a thrill when I hear someone say pulchritude.
Words are indeed powerful, and they make communication much easier.
ReplyDeleteWords are much more powerful, in fact, than most people. It's not without good reason that the Bible has a lot to say about the way we talk to each other. Good to hear from you again M.R.R.
DeleteI loved Sesame Street! lol But what I love even more is the excerpt you posted. The perfect use of the Rule of Three - repetitive and increasing in power till you hit that last adjective. Awesome! Great craft. Good luck with your novel, I'll enjoy hearing about its progress. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the well wishes and the compliment Lexa. I don't believe I've heard of the Rule of Three. I received the proofread manuscript from the publisher yesterday. My last chance to make any corrections before it goes to print. Exciting times.
Delete