Writing Style Level 2 Concrete Language

Use definite, specific, concrete Language "If those who have studied the art of writing are in accord on any one point, it is this: the surest way to arouse and hold the reader's attention is by being specific, definite, and concrete." -Strunk and White

Use Imagery…  Use words which create sensations in one or more of the reader’s five senses. Human beings gain information about the world only in these 5 ways, it makes sense to engage them on this level.

Be Concise… Write using nouns and verbs.  Never use 2 words where 1 will do. The Adjective and Adverb are the enemies of good writing. There are 750,000 standard words in the English language; use the word which means exactly what you mean, not one which must be modified to get your meaning across.

Using the Right word Practice  He ran very fast.  She is very sad.  It was a tall oak tree.  Dashed, sprinted, rushed…  Depressed, distraught, morose…  The oak tree towered over us.

Say what things Are rather than what they are Not… When you tell someone what something isn’t it gives very little information… I don’t drive a blue truck… I drive a red ford sedan.

Positive Form Practice  not honest  not important  did not pay any attention to  did not have much confidence in  dishonest lying dog  trifling  ignored  distrusted

Level 2 Practice  He showed satisfaction as he took possession of his well-earned reward.  She did not think that studying Latin was a sensible way to use one’s time.  Get good grades.  He grinned as he pocketed the coin.  She thought the study of Latin a waste of time.  Complete every assignment on time.

Assignment Step into the painting in front of you and describe your surroundings from wherever you choose to stand. Paint a picture with your words; I should be able to feel where you are standing. The Mount of the Holy Cross Oil on Canvas

Assignment continued… Assignment rules:  Avoid all forms of the word “to be.”  Tell what things are rather than what things are not.  Write using nouns and verbs which appeal to the five senses.  Touch on 4 out of the 5 senses.