Costa Blanca News’ weekly feature supporting local writers, in conjunction with Writers' Ink WELCOME to our Writers’ Ink group’s weekly words. We provide news, views, tips and examples of writing by authors and poets, local and beyond. Founded in 2010 b
Warm greetings,
WELL, spring's on its way now... tra la! Unless a writer, or a crossword puzzle lover, I doubt that you would have come across the word ‘onomatopoeia’. It means words that sound like their meanings, such as 'the pitter patter of the rain' or 'the raucous screech of a bird', etc., and using them can make a huge difference to the flatness of a piece of writing. Another 'shy' word is ‘euphony’ - mixing words with harmonious, pleasing sounds to create a soothing effect - 'the aroma of the blackberries and the bitter-sweetness of the apples simmering, made her drool in anticipation'. The third, unusual, word on the scene is ‘hyperbole’ - maybe a tad more well-known than the other two, meaning 'exaggeration' or over the top.
All three are very useful when needed to spice up a piece of uninspiring text.
Digesting the above makes it pretty clear that there are aids to make the most mundane piece of writing come alive. No-one wants to make their readers yawn... To a student writer, it brings home the need for more than a good plot and characterisation. Using all five senses, when writing, is key to making scenes come alive. It isn't enough to blandly state that: “It was a sunny morning and not much happened and the afternoon dragged on. I was bored...” Put yourself in various scenarios – it is fun, if nothing else! But it's surprising what the mind can suggest. Did you hear anything different on that sunny morning; did you see anything other than the norm? The smallest incident can elevate a story, if handled properly, especially if writing a crime story. Murders are not always carried out on dark, stormy nights... surprise your readers and send them up the wrong alley...
Don't hesitate to write honestly and expressively – it will show through! Treat words with respect and thought and they will do your work for you! As time passes and writing becomes hopefully easier, it usually gives the writer more confidence and this too can show in the quality of the writing.
If happy with the genre you write in, all to the good, but if not sure, change. Different genres suit different folks. The encouraging thing is there's something for everyone.
In conclusion, for now... if writing in a factual vein, always do your research carefully, otherwise it can come back and haunt you, or at least suggest you're a liar!
Enjoy the spring sunshine folks.
Sincerely
Joy Lennick