Words are powerful, not only the spoken word, but also the written word. While not all who write have the flair of Shakespeare, Faulkner, James Joyce, or Hemingway, we who write do have a responsibility to those who read our words to be clear in our intent, with a focus on the reader’s emotions. Stating not only what we need to say, but also what the reader needs to hear, and the way they need to hear it.
Writers do not have the luxury of looking across the table at those we speak to through our words, so that they may read our intent in our eyes. No, our words are confined to the imagination of those we wish to transmit our thoughts and ideas too. But our words are not inert; they are translated by the mind into images, and felt deeply by some.
Knowing this, as a writer it would be foolish to hide behind the mask of proximity, when we offer up our words to the reader, without taking into account the feelings we may sometimes invoke.
Yes, words are nothing but print on a page, made up squiggles of wind song with no meaning but for the meaning we give them. But they are much more than that. Words can be used to inspire or conspire; they allow us to speak of love, or condemn those who have hurt us. They can ignite passions and fuel fires, or be used to make peace with enemies. They can open the minds of others—-while being just the helping hand one needs to be brought into the fold of friendship. We can use them to bring hope, or offer dread. It is up to each person who has ever put pen to page, (writer or not) to know how he or she wishes to use their words, and what intent they want to convey.
But without understanding the emotional tone of the words we write on a page, we cannot hope to portray our true intentions. While love, intimacy, and passion can easily evoke powerful images in the minds of a reader, so too can the most banal words of the most ordinary pen. For this, we must be careful in our use of them.
It is my promise to the reader of my words to never hide behind the silent words on the page. Knowing full well the risk and feelings my words may at times invoke. I offer you this: I will risk honest scrutiny of every word I choose to use, and accept the consequences of the powerful feelings those words may sometime invoke. While it will never be my intent to do so, I may at times offend. If I do, let me know that I have done so and I will rectify my error with God’s speed.
Terry (whyguy)
This was written obviously in a moment of deep contemplation. It interests me on a number of levels. Obviously how you approach writing is exposed here, and think it is moving as well as revealing – and honest. I like that, for what it’s worth. At another level you are pulling on an interesting string that most writers and other “craft-oriented” people (if I may use those words) have – we all in our lives – not just writing – have moments when we make conscious decisions about how we move forward – but I am specifically picking on the moral dimension, and this is bigger than just writing. For example, my three partners and I have chosen to start up a publishing company with a strong moral manifesto – make good authors great. This isn’t about making money (although, hey, we are trying to make a living from it), this is about being honest with ourselves, and those we interact with. This seems like I am going on a tangent, but it isn’t – what you did was express succinctly your writing manifesto – that sets your moral standard.
Ernest Hemingway said, “I know only that what is moral is what you feel good after and what is immoral is what you feel bad after.”
I admire what you and your business partners are doing, it is refreshing to hear of such high moral standards. I wish you all the best, and hope that your business model becomes the standard for others to follow.
Who says you have to sell your soul to be successful? Nope, if you are true to yourself, and live by your moral code, success is assured. Maybe not always in business, but in life, it is a given.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Thank you very much. It was a good one.
There are many proverbs on the tounge, and you have a great gift, I am greatful that your heart cares enough to use words wisely and thoughtfully.
I do not have the gift of words, and many a time I do not express myself well, but I truely appreciate YOU!
BTW I love your writings!!!! and I love the funny ones the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doris, thanks for your kind words, it means a great deal to me to know you are stopping by and enjoying my words.
oops, meant learn not lean!
Why? Certainly those who write have a responsibility to consider what emotions their words might evoke in their readers. Of course I agree that as writers we should be succinct and concise so that the ideas and concepts we hope to communicate, and the audiences we hope to inspire are easily reached.
However, I challenge you Whyguy to be true to yourself, and express your beautiful spirit at will. Is it not the writer’s responsibility to shine their light and perspective for the world to appreciate? And if one offends, by being honest and bold in their delivery is an apology necessary? Certainly not. As humans we must agree to disagree at times, and know in our hearts the need to express is not an intention to hurt or offend. Be creative my friend, relish in this action you have taken to share your gift. This is a wonderful forum to grow and lean. And don’t worry we’ll let you know if you cross a line! LOL Enjoy!
Ann, thank you for your comment and insights, I can’t argue with you on any point you made. I do believe that we need to say what is in our hearts, and that people do sometimes have to agree to disagree. Point well taken. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. I hope you come back often.
Terry