Tag: meaning

“I would write my tears, weeping out my pain

I would empty my veins for ink.” (muse slice)

Logophile Pastry:

The word ‘would’ is considered  to be a verb in the English language. Verbs are those words which directly relate to action. ‘Would’, can infer that you have already willing done something, becoming the past tense. It should be noted that in today’s style of speech and writing,  we rarely see this application. More often we utilize the word have. ie. I will do that < > I have done that. We use the word ‘would’ in a more futuristic sense … I would do that.

But the word ‘will’ also implies an action yet to be taken also. ie. I will eat the apple. Since all of the issues discussed are true, what difference does it make when a poet (or writer) decides upon a certain connotation or meaning ?  It means the world!

Let’s try these examples;

1. I would write my tears, weeping out my pain ~I would empty my veins for ink.
2. I will write my tears, weeping out my pain ~I will empty my veins for ink.
3. I have written my tears, weeping out my pain ~I have emptied my veins for ink.

Number 3, it is quite clear that this action has already occurred. Something has caused our writer grief and pain. As readers we immediately begin to ‘relate’. Our inquisitive human nature is put on hold because we have no further insight from the author. We search our souls for empathy and/or sympathy. For who among us have not shed tears? It is only on a commitment to deeper exploration we seek to know what caused these actions. Yet not every reader is a committed reader ~ not every reader is an explorer. As a writer, you most assuredly want to evoke empathy and sympathy but as a good writer and poet you want more!

Number 2, utilizes the word ‘will’.  A statement that infers the writer is determined and steadfast in their commitment to action. The reader feels a less compelling connection to the poet, why? Because the poet is not engaging the reader. By choosing to use the word ‘will’,  we are being prepared for little else than a monologue. As a writer / poet one must use care not lose their reader. For now we are asking “ok, so, you will…now what?” … If there is not a clear and definitive path to emotion stronger than that ~ all is for naught.

‘Would’. My chosen word. Why? Because it states the action … with a delicately nuanced set of conditions. “I would write my tears…” leaves the reader to ask “You would, why? Have you? When?” etc.  This selection also entangles the heart and mind for the same reasons cited in number 3.  By choosing the word “would”, the poet / writer weaves a decidedly more layered thread with the reader. The reader, who may not on the surface be an explorer, will react to the word ‘would’ with emotional and mental ferocity. “Right, I would do that too…IF…”  Therein dwells the secret. You must find a spark of camaraderie between poet / writer and reader.

The word ‘would’ is such a powerful weapon, use it with caution as tears may follow.