How Writers Extend Standard Metaphors; and how Val McDermid does
How artists extend or elaborate conventional metaphors was brought home to me forcefully and repeatedly while reading a detective novel Broken Ground[ii] by Val McDermid.
Exploring the lexical delights of words with the -arian suffix
The author explores the suffix "-arian" in words, using the Oxford English Dictionary as a rich resource. Notable terms include "flexitarian," "Trustafarian," and "antidisestablishmentarian," highlighting their meanings and historical contexts. The discussion reflects on language evolution, the charm of neologisms, and the cultural implications of these terms.
The Charms of Onomatopoeia and Frivolity in English
This post explores the links between playful language, onomatopoeia, and the triviality associated with knick-knacks and bric-a-brac. It discusses various still current as well as redundant words that suggest frivolity and highlight the charms of English, through examples from history and different languages, particularly focusing on phonetic enjoyment and literary creativity.