The Power of Word Choice in Fiction

By Janice Hardy, @Janice_Hardy

Part of the Past Wisdom Series

This is the first post in a new series, pulling older (but still relevant) advice and tips from the Fiction University archives.
While working n my latest project (a young adult fantasy), I edited a line to better reflect the point of view character’s attitude about the world. He’s the future ruler of an empire, so he tends to think in terms of “ownership” about that empire. For example, for him it’s:
My Empire, not the empireMy Guard, not the guards (as his Guards are unique to him and not like the rest)On the other side, my second protagonist is an outsider to this world, even though she’s lived there half her life. She rarely refers to someone by name (unless they’re a good friend or have no other moniker), but title or role. For example:
The commander (not Commander Xiomo)The inquisitor (not Inquisitor Tavaris)The sentinel (not whatever their name might be)How they refer to the people and things around them is directly tired to how they see themselves in that world.
Read more »Written by Janice Hardy. Fiction-University.com