Words, Glorious Words

I apologize for the slacking; finals week was upon me and so much cramming!  But I must report, I survived and in one sane piece, for the most part. 

I was reading something a bit ago about publishing, as writing is a hobby of mine, okay, so maybe I dream of finishing a publishable novel someday… anyway, I read something about how these days publishers dislike adjectives, and anything fancier than the word “said” after a snippet of dialogue.  And as an avid reader and part-time writer, I must shout balderdash on you!  If we cannot use an adjective, why do they exist, hmm?  And why stick to “said” when my character can shout, exclaim, growl, whisper, yell, fumble, I think I make my point.  Think of all those fabulous books you read and pay attention to the words.  Some authors confess to using words for the sake of their existence, I am looking at you Neil Gaiman, and E.B. White.  Nothing wrong with adding a little flair and color. 

Now, this does not mean go overboard.  Adjectives and descriptors, like many things in life only work at a precious balance.  Too much, and well, you’ve lost it.  Too little, and it’s like reading a child’s book teaching me the basics of reading. 

She ran as fast as could.

Her muscles aching, her lungs burning she forced her legs to keep pressing on.

I mean come on.  Two sentences, both with a woman running, but the second has style and lots of fun words.  Words, beautiful words, are what bring the page to life.  So do not be afraid to use those magnificent beauties my friends.