Simplifying Language: Writing Without Unfamiliar Words
In today's world, writing can be a delicate balance between using specialized vocabulary and ensuring that the message is accessible to the widest possible audience. Many writers wonder if it is possible to convey all necessary information without resorting to words that are unfamiliar to the reader. This article explores the concept of writing with simplicity, arguing that it is indeed achievable, even in technical fields and poetic endeavors.
The Power of Simplicity in Writing
Consider the technical writing of software manuals. It is often necessary to explain complex software functions using terms that the end-users might need to understand. However, the key is to use these terms judiciously and in a way that does not overwhelm the reader. A skilled technical writer can explain everything with a limited word count, around 1000 words, without sacrificing the necessary technical vocabulary. This balance is crucial for both clarity and user engagement.
Countdown and the Unfamiliar Terms
The UK panel show Countdown demonstrates how complex words are selected from a set of 9 letters. Just as a dictionary explains certain uses and variations of words, these shows often include words that are less familiar to the general audience. However, dictionaries cannot include every possible variation, as it would make them unwieldy. This raises an interesting point: how many words do we truly need to include in our language?
The Benefits of Familiar Words
While unfamiliar words have their place in academic and specialized literature, they do not always enhance our overall vocabulary. Many of the words we learn are not used frequently, but they are invaluable when we study the works of great writers and thinkers. For instance, the New Testament epistles of Saint Paul and the Psalms and Book of Proverbs contain unique phrasings and expressions that enrich our understanding of language and literature. Studying these works can improve our vocabulary and writing skills, even if we never use all the words in our daily conversations.
Writing for a Widened Audience
The challenge is in writing that is both accessible and engaging. Can we write without fancy phrases? Absolutely. This can often be achieved through deliberate editing, making the text reader-friendly for both young and old. Many online resources, such as Grammarly, can help identify complicated words and suggest simpler alternatives. Similarly, AI tools and translations of religious texts often provide easier-to-read versions, aimed at a broader audience.
The approach to writing for children is particularly interesting. While the text may not entertain adult readers, reading children's stories to children is a valuable way to increase comprehension and maintain interest. This is not to say that all poets cater to an audience; many poets adopt a take-it-or-leave-it attitude, often finding acceptance in poetry publications. However, excluding rhymes does not necessarily mean a loss in quality, as poetry can still be meaningful beyond its auditory qualities.
The Role of Poetry and Rhyme
Rhyming poetry often comes across as playful and whimsical, more commonly associated with extended limericks. Nevertheless, hymns once contained extensive biblical verses and teachings. Today, basic choruses remain popular in many churches, suggesting a mix of complex and simple elements can be welcome in poetry and music. Books like THE FIRESIDE BOOK and THE PEOPLE'S FRIEND are examples of gentle, upbeat poems designed to entertain a wide audience, showcasing the accessibility of poetic language.
The Value of Recitation
In addition to written words, the manner of recitation plays a crucial role in poetry's impact. Websites like Poemhunter feature recitations by talented individuals like Blessed Sheriff, highlighting the importance of voice in delivering poetry. Similarly, gospel songs and hymns on YouTube offer a powerful way to engage with the written word through recitation and music. These mediums can provide a new perspective on familiar texts, making them more accessible and relatable.
Resources for Poets and Writers
For those interested in exploring poetry and Bible-related works, websites like and offer a wealth of resources. These sites provide 3500 poems and free eBooks, making it easy to explore and engage with diverse and simplified forms of literature. Whether you are a seasoned poet or a new writer, these resources can help you refine your craft and reach a broader audience.
In conclusion, while unfamiliar words have their place, they are not always necessary in writing. By making deliberate choices and using tools for simplification, writers can make their work more accessible and engaging. This balance can enrich both technical writing and poetry, making the written word universally relatable and enjoyable.