There Should Be More Ways to Explain Things

Summary

The article discusses the importance of finding diverse and intentional ways to communicate and explain our thoughts and feelings.

Abstract

The author reflects on a conversation with their son about the limitations of language in expressing emotions, which leads to a broader discussion on the multitude of methods available to convey information. The author, a writer, ponders the various stylistic choices one can make, such as using humor, drama, or different linguistic registers, to communicate effectively. The piece emphasizes the value of being intentional in how we share our experiences and ideas, suggesting that through careful consideration, we can connect more deeply with others, whether by eliciting laughter, empathy, or intellectual engagement.

Opinions

The author believes that there are countless ways to explain things, beyond the initial words that come to mind.
Writers face the daily challenge of choosing the right tone and approach to convey their messages.
Being intentional with word choice and narrative style can lead to more meaningful and effective communication.
The author values the ability to connect with others through storytelling and sees it as a way to either relate to or rise above a situation.
The article suggests that by pondering different ways to explain things, we can better express complex feelings and thoughts.
The author is hopeful about the future of communication, especially after witnessing their son's insight into the need for more expressive means of explanation.

Intentional talking

My son was trying to explain a feeling he was having. He was throwing around words and sentences like a juggler going from ping pong balls to fire swords. Then he’d say, “No, no. That's not what I mean” and try new sentences. Finally, he said, “there should be more ways to explain things.”

“There are,” I said, laughing. “There are a million ways to explain things.”

“Oh yeah,” he said.

But it got me thinking. People should try more ways to explain things because there are so many ways to explain things.

We, writers, deal with that challenge every day. How do I want to say this? Who do I want to say it through? Do I want to say things in a funny way or a dramatic way? Do I want to use posh erudite language or gritty down-to-earth words that splat? Do I want people to think I’m smart or relatable?

There are so many ways to explain things.

Do I want to yell it into people’s faces or whisper it into their ears? Do I want to relate or disassociate? Do I want to convey acceptance or a desire for vengeance? Do I want to speak through poetry or dialog? Do I want to embellish or tell it exactly as it happened, as I saw it?

There are so many ways to explain things.

Do I want listeners to know I was harmed or let them how I survived? Do I want to tell a lengthy yarn or lead with a joke? And what is my motive for telling these things? Why do I need to explain these things? Do I want to connect or rise above? Do I want your compassion or your allegiance?

There are so many ways to explain things.

I love how this mattered to my son. It made me hopeful. Why not ponder all the ways we could explain things instead of saying the first thing that comes to mind? Why not be intentional?

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

There Should Be More Ways to Explain Things

Intentional talking

Don’t Hang Up Until You’re Laughing

Ending on a good note

How to Turn the World Upside Down

Read the instructions wrong

Captain Sandwich and the Seasons

The gaping chasm of time