"It's not what you say..."
That is how LisaAuch starts her lens "The Chosen Word".
The title got my attention. I mentally completed the old adage "... it's how you say it". Lisa brings to the forefront the question of how the written word is perceived. Without facial expressions, tone of voice and body language, how do we know if what we are saying is actually received in the manner we intended?
As Lisa points out, being articulate and using a good vocabulary helps but it does not guarantee our message is understood. A barrage of questions concerning my own writing came to mind as I read the introduction: As a writer, do I engage the reader? Do I write for myself, without regard for the reader? Do I write what I think they want to hear or the truth as I see it. Does my writing mean anything to anyone but myself? Does that matter?
I firmly believe words, spoken or written, are the vehicle to the self. Whether intend or not, words express telling details about the author. Are those words indicative of the real you or me?
Lisa also points out that technology has had an impact on the written word and how it is conveyed. She quotes some staggering statistics about text messaging and ponders the future of the written word. The duel module asks visitors if they really "see the person that has written the article or just the words on the screen". Some of the comments left by readers are very thought provoking, especially as a writer.
In her closing, she explains she was motivated to write the lens due to her struggles to understand other writers and their styles. I say, the most important lesson I took away from Lisa's lens was to question myself and my motivation as a writer. Writing without passion or purpose is not my goal. Thank you, Lisa.
I have to say Mandee that you are a great writer and I do enjoy reading your reviews and lenses. I think that I learn a little more about you each time I read something you've written. Lots of good points here and I agree totally with the technology thing. Our way of using the written word is becoming far too impersonal.
ReplyDeleteAh yes. So easy to misinterpret what we read. Tone can be completely missed. And in the day of shortcuts in writing, both time-wise and with text speak, things can get a little off kilter. :)
ReplyDeleteLove Lisa's lens and this review, Mandee! It is so very difficult, sometimes, to convey what we really mean and yet keep it short and simple for the attention spans of our readers. Sadly, the attention span seems to be getting shorter due to technology.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone. I appreciate your kind words Pam, I feel the same about your writing and getting to know you. :)
ReplyDeleteMimi, that's what I thought too. I want to make sure I convey, through my words, what I truly want the reader to take away.
Thanks Bev! You are so right about the attention span. It's seems to shrink more each day. Technology is good but but is causing writers problems!