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| Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson & Rupert Grint (left to right) at the world premiere of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part 2 in London, England (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
Certain words/phrases can induce fairly specific responses in readers. As
writers, we all know this, but do we use the power of emotion in our work?
For these few weeks, I’m looking at something subjective: how to choose
between emotional and intellectual words for effect. You won’t always agree
with me, of course; you’re writers. But, hopefully, my suggestions will get the
thought processes going.
In this series I’m looking at the difference between words that seem
intellectual as opposed to those that evoke a more emotional response. How you
use them is obviously up to you. The point is that the alternatives have the
same, or very similar, meanings, but their effect upon the reader can be
markedly different. I’ve made some suggestions here, but I’m sure you can think
of others.
Intellectual: Intelligent
Emotional: Bright
‘Hermione Granger is one of most intelligent students, combining a
retentive memory with a thorough understanding of the rules of magic.’
‘Oh, come on, Hermione; you’re a very bright witch!’
Intellectual: Superior To
Emotional: Better Than
‘There is no doubt in the minds of the establishment that children
educated in fee-paying schools are superior to those who attend state schools.’
‘You might like to think you’re better than me, mate, but the evidence is
that you’re simply more educated in those things that have no real connection
to ordinary life.’
Intellectual: Courageous
Emotional: Brave
‘Sir Humphrey considered Jim Hacker’s decision to tell his constituents
the truth to be courageous, which translated into “foolish”.’
‘How brave of Emily Parker to fight her cancer in public.’
2 comments:
well understanding post
Great readiing
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