Ever since I was young there were words I found fascinating. Growing up in a rural, isolated area the first word I recall studying was ‘sophisticated‘. I decided – thinking this was an awesome thing to be – I would be sophisticated when I grew up. At the time it meant – knowing everything in a classy style. I would know how to dress, eat, behave and which places be. Now, I find it amusing and realize being yourself isn’t something that can be taught. But I haven’t lost my fascination with words or phrases.
Lately I find myself concentrating on words and phrases more and more. A few that have caught my attention and made me concentrate are: –
…like Aloe Vera on a wound... what a wonderful way to say so much in a few words.
…finding my inner cowboy… well, why not? I write about cowboys and I have been trying to capture that ‘inner cowboy’ personality for quite some time. I know it’s different and some might think too old-fashioned to strive for. But I, personally, admire the cowboy nature. Now I understand what I am searching for a little more.
...could start an argument in an empty room… again what a unique way of saying something without ambling.
…excessive… as I was brought up Roman Catholic – it seemed that many ‘sins’ involved ‘excessive’. It was okay to eat whatever you wanted – but a sin to be obese – excessive. It is okay to ‘gamble’ but not to be addicted – excessive. The list goes on and on. And as I get older I am seeing that not being ‘excessive’ – but enjoying – is a healthy lifestyle. One simple word might give you a healthier lifestyle. How fascinating is that?
I find this type of exercise helps me immensely in my writing endeavors. I hope others might see the value in words and a way to make yourself a better writer – something most strive for.
