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by Jay O'Toole

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Jun 1, 2020 at 6:34pm

#3348357

DISCUSSION: The power of connotation.

by Dave

“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.”
~ Mark Twain

In addition to the precise literal definition found in dictionaries, many words are imbued with shades of emotional interpretation, based on historic or cultural associations. For example, Hollywood and Sacramento are both cities in California, but Hollywood often is used to represent the glitz, glamor, celebrity, and dreams of stardom in the movie industry. "House" and "home" are both defined as "a dwelling place," but "home" carries an additional emotional connection to a sense of comfort, love and family. "Residence," "abode," "apartment," and "lodging" are other words which have basically the same literal application, but have varying implications.

Because of usage over time, words with approximately the same definition may acquire additional meanings that are either positive or negative. We may refer to someone who uses drugs as a "substance abuser," "addict," or "junky," reflecting different levels of sympathy. The various feelings, images, and memories that are evoked by a word become its connotation.

The relationship between words and meanings can be complicated and is continually shifting, depending on who is speaking or listening. Since specific words spark specific emotional reactions, poets often use these connotations to achieve a desired effect, as in

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Your assignment: Write a poem about summer using connotations to inject fuller flavor into your composition.

Let the creativity flow from your soul!