More On The Third Step In Memoir-Writing Success

Translating Inflections and Intonation to the Page

Jun 13, 2009

There are many different aspects to consider when creating a written voice, the hardest of which is translating the intended meaning of something to text.

Many expressions or phrases hold a variety of different meanings which makes the English language very hard to learn. What's harder still is transferring the intended meaning of a statement into written form.

Even simple phrases like, "Oh, yeah," can hold several meanings. It could be said in agreement to something; it could be said as a threat; it could be said with sarcasm; it could be said many different ways. Simply writing the phrase will not convey it's meaning to the audience.

While the tone of a statement doesn't always hold meaning, there are many occasions on which it does hold meaning. There are also times when vocalizations cannot be expressed in written form. When asked, "How are you?" people occasionally respond with a shrug and a sound to infer their feelings. These types of things cannot be written. So, it is up to the writer to find a way around such a pressing problem.

Translating Speech From the Mouth to the Page

While the subtle vocal cues and/or gestures cannot hop onto the page, there are other ways of conveying the intended meaning of a sentence or phrase. Writers control the atmosphere and arrangement of sentences and words. It is through these aspects of writing that intended meaning can be conveyed.

Punctuation is a Friend

The way something is punctuated can convey meaning. Rules can bend and break when attempting to convey meaning, for the meaning of the words is much more important than the rules of grammar and punctuation. Though, throwing grammar and punctuation out the window is also not an option.

The phrase, "Nice dress" can be said in a few different ways. Though, the reader has no way of knowing if it is meant as a compliment or an insult. Punctuation can clear this up. If the writer uses an exclamation point at the end of the phrase, it denotes excitement which in turn means that the speaker is probably saying it as a compliment, "Nice dress!" On the other hand a comma would slow the phrase down and the hesitation would signify that the speaker wasn't exactly sincere in their praise of the dress. "Nice, dress." or "Nice, uh dress."

Sentence Structure is a Friend

Similarly, the structure of a sentence goes a long way in deciphering the writer's meaning. The way words are arranged and punctuated helps the reader understand the intended meaning of the thought. So, play around with sentence structure. Often, the most effortless-seeming sentences required the most amount of thought and revision.

If something doesn't sit right or doesn't convey the correct emotions/meaning, re-arrange it. Play with the sentence. Add or remove words. Change the sentence around. Edit the punctuation. These things will go a long way in helping create the correct meaning of a phrase or sentence.

There are many other tips and tricks to help translate the intended meaning of a sentence. There are just a couple of easy and essential starting points to help start the writing process. For more tips and tricks on memoir writing check out these articles:

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