Don't you just love words? Particularly those in the English language.
I think the most striking thing about writing using the English language is the element of nuance that is available to the writer, where each synonym of a word offers a finely graded distinction of meaning . To cite one example, of very many, if we are looking for an adjective that describes the feelings of a father, we can opt for either 'fatherly' or 'paternal'. But these two apparent synonyms do not communicate precisely the same meaning. 'Fatherly' is more protective and affectionate, whereas 'paternal' communicates more of a sense of an official standing as parent.
This richness in the English language owes itself to the massive influence of other languages throughout the centuries. Anglo-Saxon, Old Norse, Norman French and Latin influences have all combined to shape the vocabulary that is available to us all. In the example above, the word 'fatherly' comes from the Germanic word for father, 'vater', whereas 'paternal' is rooted in the Latin 'pater'and reflects Roman society where the role of a father was more based on stern duty than affection.
The English language is such an extraordinary tool that it is not surprising that these islands have produced so many exceptional writers. Perhaps not many of us will rise to their hallowed ranks, but how marvellous it is for anyone with any interest in writing to have such a well of meaning and nuance available!
I think the most striking thing about writing using the English language is the element of nuance that is available to the writer, where each synonym of a word offers a finely graded distinction of meaning . To cite one example, of very many, if we are looking for an adjective that describes the feelings of a father, we can opt for either 'fatherly' or 'paternal'. But these two apparent synonyms do not communicate precisely the same meaning. 'Fatherly' is more protective and affectionate, whereas 'paternal' communicates more of a sense of an official standing as parent.
This richness in the English language owes itself to the massive influence of other languages throughout the centuries. Anglo-Saxon, Old Norse, Norman French and Latin influences have all combined to shape the vocabulary that is available to us all. In the example above, the word 'fatherly' comes from the Germanic word for father, 'vater', whereas 'paternal' is rooted in the Latin 'pater'and reflects Roman society where the role of a father was more based on stern duty than affection.
The English language is such an extraordinary tool that it is not surprising that these islands have produced so many exceptional writers. Perhaps not many of us will rise to their hallowed ranks, but how marvellous it is for anyone with any interest in writing to have such a well of meaning and nuance available!