Diction = Vocabulary + Syntax Beverley Gregory

DICTION "Narrowly defined, diction refers to a writer's or speaker's word choice. The term may also refer to the general type or character of language used in a speech or work of literature. In this broader sense, diction is typically divided into two components: vocabulary and syntax.   By vocabulary, we mean the degree of difficulty, complexity, abstractness, formality, and currency of words used. Syntax refers to the arrangement--the ordering, grouping, and placement--of words within a phrase, clause, or sentence." (Bedford Glossary of Critical and Literary Terms, p.87)

The Elements of Diction: Some Considerations for Vocabulary "The difference between the right word and almost the right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug." Mark Twain 1.  What is the level of difficulty/complexity/abstractness of the vocabulary and is it appropriate for the intended audience?   2.  Where does the chosen vocabulary fall on "the formality scale"? Is the general tenor casual, informal or is it more formal, conventional, or does it fall somewhere between? 3.  Consider the connotation of the chosen word; ask yourself: is it positive? negative? relatively neutral? Does it fit my desired intent and tone? 4.  Does the chosen vocabulary reflect current or contemporary language use or do the word choices reflect another time or literary period?

The Elements of Syntax: How to Analyze or Create Effective Syntax 1. Consider what type of sentence is being used and what the writer’s intent with that choice is. Declarative - a sentence that makes a statement Imperative - a sentence that commands Interrogative - a sentence that asks a question Exclamatory - a sentence that makes a forceful, sudden or vehement utterance.

The Elements of Syntax: How to Analyze or Create Effective Syntax 2. Pay attention to the length of the sentences used and the effects that occur when a pattern of sentence length makes a subtle or abrupt shift. Long sentences - these generally (not always) increase the narrative pace since the reader is forced to move through the text 'without stopping." Short sentences - these generally slow the pace or they may be used to emphasize an idea since the reader is being given a message to focus on this small piece. Variation on length - pay attention to any abrupt shift in the sentence length since the writer may be using that change in pace to focus the reader's attention.

The Elements of Syntax: How to Analyze or Create Effective Syntax 3. Examine the writer's use of all forms of punctuation; just how a sentence is punctuated can hold some subtle or obvious messages.  Use of a question mark (?)   ¨   What is the writer's possible intention? ¨      Is it a rhetorical question that the writer uses to get the reader's attention? ¨      Is the writer asking a question that he/she is going to answer later on in his / her piece? ¨      Is the question an unanswerable one that the writer is posing for the reader's reflection? Use of an exclamation mark (!) ¨      What is the emotion being expressed in this emphatic statement? ¨      Why an exclamation at this particular point in the piece; is it being used for emphasis?   Use of a comma or series of commas ¨      Is the writer trying to slow the pace of the sentence by breaking it up with pauses? ¨      Do the commas set up a particular rhythm or do they break or shift an established rhythm? ¨      Do the commas mimic or reflect the figurative language of the piece? Use of semicolon or a series of semicolons ¨      Why is the writer choosing to join these complete sentences; what is the connection or importance of their relationship? ¨      Does the use of a semicolon create an abrupt shift in the sentence length? What is the possible reason for this shift?

The Elements of Syntax: How to Analyze or Create Effective Syntax 4.      Look for any purposeful and effective use of repetition: words, phrases, forms of punctuation, types of sentences, etc. and try to come up with the possible rationale for the repetition.   5.     Look at the language patterns within the sentences. Did the writer use parallel structure to create a smooth flow? Has the writer used alliteration or diction to create a cadence or break a rhythm for emphasis? 6.     Look at the placement of syntactic elements for effect. Did the writer place the modifiers before the subject? ¨       Modifiers may precede the subject to establish tone (e.g., Frightened and alone, I crept into the closet to hide.) ¨      A series of prepositional phrases may establish setting: In the depths of the basement, under a decrepit staircase, the eyes peered back at me.

Narrative Pace Writers use all of these factors, and their interrelationships, to create what is referred to as "narrative pace" or "the flow of the language" within a piece of writing. The pace can range from smooth and rhythmical to choppy, halting or disruptive; it all depends on the writer's desired effect and how that effect contributes to the meaning of his / her work.