For this week, I had the opportunity to read Junot Diaz’s story, The Money, which describes the Dominican’s childhood experience with a robbery of his mother’s treasured stash of money and his ability to recover the funds through his clever thinking. I especially admired Diaz’s use of language in this specific essay. He kept his sentences brief and concise, allowing the reader to easily follow the progression of events. I also appreciate his casual language that makes us feel as if we are just a member of the family receiving secret information from one close pal to another. Considering the tough environment the family grew up in, this type of language definitely fit the theme of the story.
When asked the question of my specific language style, I admit I was stuck in shell shocked wonder. I have never considered myself as an author, and thus have never provided time to categorize my style of writing. I first checked online and came across an article written by Syed Meer about the Four Different Types of Writing Styles. Based on the different examples, I decided to choose the persuasive language and style because whenever I write, I often insert my personal opinions to convince the audience to see my point of view. Finished, right? Absolutely not!
I realized that the question of your “language” is so much more original than that, it cannot be replicated by anyone else. We all have our own distinctive languages that distinguish us from the rest. I would say my language is straight forward and honest with a tinge of formality. Or, perhaps I am incorrect? I understand the task was to clearly dictate our language and usage in writing, however I am still discovering my own language as I progress. As Willa Silbert Cartha, a Pulitzer Prize award winner, said regarding her literary hit O Pioneers! “I don’t want anyone reading my writing to think about style. I just want them to be in the story.”
So let us to try to understand the difference between language vs style. Language is a more broad term describing the way a writer send information the reader. Style, on the other hand, is much more focused explaining the personality, voice, ideas, and mannerisms of the writer. Wonderful definitions, I must admit. Oh, the irony of being a writer, I have currently reached four hundred words with still no idea at my “languages” (plural, now is it?) and how I incorporate different languages in certain scenarios. I will continue to research this topic, and will add information in the comments if I reach a euphoric moment. Or if not, then I will follow as Ms. Cartha did, and let the writing flow from the soul to the page with no thought of specific language.
Signing off,
Delectable Danielle