Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Words Matter


This video has a profound impact on the power of words. The rearranging or restating your message can have the ability to bring about a better response from the reader. Have a stronger effect. Broaden the audience. Have a lasting impression.


In fiction and non-fiction alike we see this concept when we revise our content. It is also useful for persuasive letter writing and writing grants. For advertising and marketing endeavors. No doubt, the woman in the video was a writer or in advertising. 


The blind man had a message, simply put:
"I'm blind. Please help."

He stated a fact and what he wanted. The message that he felt helpless. People may have felt helpless also, that a small contribution would not make much difference for him.

The woman's revision stated:
"It's a beautiful day and I can't see it."

The new message drew the reader into the man's experience where they could contrast it with their own. It solicited something tangible that they could do to make an immediate difference in the man's life. While many folks were out enjoying their own beautiful day, he is restricted. Perhaps they could ease his burden with their generosity and make his day some how, in some way, more beautiful. And it made their day more beautiful as well.

This campaign applies to all, writers and conversationalists. Change your words. Change the world.

9 comments:

  1. This is stunning...I am sitting here with tears in my eyes. This is just so beautiful, thank you so much for posting this.

    *I popped over from seeing your post listed in the blogroll of Time-Warp Wife. :)

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  2. Thanks for visiting Mrs. Zwieg! The video is very touching indeed.

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  3. Makes you stop and ponder, Groovy. Here's a tissue, dear.

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  4. I loved the video, Carla. Thanks for sharing.

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  5. Hi Carla -

    This should be required watching for every writer. Powerful stuff! I will be linking to your post in the near future.

    Blessings,
    Susan :)

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  6. Thanks, Susan! Yes, powerful is a good word to describe this.

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  7. Thank you, Cheryl. Glad you stopped by!

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  8. Wow! This video certainly made a point!

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