The Writing Life
Flibbertigibbet sounds like “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo” or “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” The sound is appropriate, considering that flibbertigibbet means a silly or flighty person. All three phrases convey a sense of the nonsensical and the downright “atrocious.” (Thank you, Mary Poppins.)
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“It is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma; but perhaps there is a key.” — Winston Churchill
It’s unfair to use Churchill’s enigma quote out of context. In context, Churchill is speaking of Russia and his uncertainty about how Russia will act. As such, his words contain broader implications; many situations leave a person wondering how events will unfold and people will behave. [Read more…] about Alphabet Adventure: E is for Enigma
This article’s title obviously, and without apology, plays off the post “B is for the B Sides” published a few weeks ago. However, the letter “d” begins many “dark” words: devil, dastardly, doubt, despair, depression. The letter also starts neutral words: deliberate, for example, could center a person undergoing a trial. He or she makes a deliberate choice to believe God is good despite a chronic illness or prolonged unemployment.
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“Cynosure” sounds like it could be the name of a dinosaur, but the word literally means “dog’s tail.” When capitalized, cynosure always refers to Ursa Minor, particularly the North Star set within the constellation. The word’s other uses relate to it being the northernmost star; a cynosure can direct or guide and, in some instances, serve as the center of attention—perhaps explaining all the wishes wished upon it.
On road trips, when my brothers and I weren’t squabbling or being reprimanded for imaginary wars with passing drivers, we played games. “I Spy” lost its luster quickly. We spent more time with the “alphabet game,” perhaps because it took forever to get through all twenty-six letters.
I trade in words. If I were to go back to school, I would probably study linguistics and etymology. I like history and learning about how words morph in spelling and definition. They delight the senses, and the perfectly placed word—it’s an experience hard to describe. It prompts delight, occasions a “yes!” or an “oh” and scribbles in the margin.