65. Showing the power of words

The words, "DREAM BIG" written on black background

Introduction

Words are more than just tools for communication—they are powerful instruments for showing, revealing, and bringing concepts to life. The Words of the Week (WoW) series has been an exploration of how specific words can do more than just convey information; they can create vivid mental images, evoke emotions, and connect us to deeper meanings. This blog delves into how the principle of "show, don’t tell" applies to language, using carefully chosen words to show the richness and depth of our experiences.

The art of showing through vocabulary

Language has the unique ability to create images in our minds, to make us see, feel, and experience things as if they were happening right before us. In the WoW series, I’ve focused on selecting words that have this power—words that don’t just tell us what something is but show us how it feels, looks, or sounds. These words bring experiences to life, making them more tangible and relatable.

For example, a word like "serene" doesn’t just describe a peaceful environment; it shows us the stillness of a quiet morning by a lake, the gentle ripples on the water’s surface, and the soft rustling of leaves in the breeze. By using words that show rather than tell, the WoW series helps readers to visualize and connect with the concepts being discussed, turning abstract ideas into vivid, memorable experiences.

Using words to paint emotional landscapes

Emotions are complex and multifaceted, often difficult to express with precision. However, the right words can serve as powerful tools for showing the full spectrum of human emotions. In the WoW series, I’ve explored words that capture these emotional nuances, offering a way to express feelings that might otherwise be hard to articulate.

For instance, the word "bittersweet" is more than just a combination of two opposing emotions; it shows us the complexity of experiencing joy and sorrow simultaneously, like the joy of reconnecting with an old friend mixed with the sadness of knowing the time together is limited. By focusing on words that convey emotional depth, the WoW series invites readers to explore and understand their own feelings in a more nuanced way.

Creating connections through language

Words have the power to bridge gaps between people, to create connections through shared experiences and understanding. The WoW series has highlighted words that serve this purpose, offering a way to communicate our experiences, thoughts, and feelings in a way that resonates with others. By showing rather than telling, these words help to build empathy and connection.

For example, a word like "kindred" doesn’t just describe a close relationship; it shows the bond between two people who understand each other deeply, who share common values and experiences. This word goes beyond mere description, offering a glimpse into the emotional connection that defines such relationships. Through the WoW series, I’ve aimed to use words that create these connections, helping readers to see and feel the experiences being shared.

Language as a tool for creative expression

Words are not just for communication; they are also tools for creative expression. The WoW series has provided a platform for exploring the artistic potential of language, using words to show the beauty, complexity, and richness of the world around us. By selecting words that evoke imagery, emotion, and meaning, the series has turned language into an art form.

For example, exploring a word like "luminous" allows us to see the world in a new light, to imagine the soft glow of a candle, the radiance of the moon, or the brilliance of an idea that illuminates our understanding. By using language creatively, the WoW series shows us the world not just as it is but as it can be imagined, experienced, and felt.

Conclusion: showing through the power of words

The Words of the Week series is more than just a vocabulary exercise; it’s an exploration of how language can be used to show, reveal, and connect. By focusing on words that create vivid images, evoke deep emotions, and build connections between people, the WoW series has turned language into a powerful tool for showing rather than telling. As I continue to explore the richness of language, I’m committed to using words to show the world in all its complexity and beauty, turning abstract concepts into experiences that resonate and inspire.

The reference artwork