1.Read the following proverbs on written communication skills from various countries.
Can you add a few more proverbs from your mother tongue or any other language? o Which proverb do you like the most? Why? Share your views with the class.
a. Words fly, writing remains.
The proverb "Actions speak louder than words" conveys the idea that what a person does carries more weight and significance than what they say. It suggests that actions reveal true intentions and beliefs more accurately than mere verbal promises or expressions. This proverb emphasizes the importance of demonstrating one's convictions through behavior rather than relying solely on verbal assertions. It underscores the value of tangible actions in building trust, credibility, and understanding in interpersonal relationships and various situations.
Context:
This proverb finds relevance in interpersonal relationships, professional settings, and various situations where trust and credibility are essential. For example, it may be pertinent in evaluating the sincerity of a friend's promises, the reliability of a colleague's commitments, or the integrity of a public figure's statements. Additionally, it can apply to scenarios where actions are more impactful than words, such as acts of kindness, leadership, or advocacy.
Example:
Consider a scenario where a supervisor continually assures their team of their dedication to employee well-being and work-life balance, yet consistently assigns excessive workloads and disregards personal boundaries. Despite the verbal reassurances, the team members feel overworked, stressed, and undervalued due to the supervisor's actions contradicting their words. In this example, the proverb "Actions speak louder than words" applies because the supervisor's behavior reveals their true priorities and values more accurately than their verbal promises. The discrepancy between what the supervisor says and what they do erodes trust and credibility, undermining their leadership effectiveness.
Explanation:
This proverb highlights the importance of aligning words with actions to maintain trust and credibility. It suggests that individuals should be mindful of the impact their behavior has on others, as actions often carry more weight and leave a lasting impression. In the example provided, the supervisor's failure to match their actions with their words diminishes their credibility and damages relationships within the team. Thus, the proverb serves as a reminder to prioritize integrity and consistency in both words and actions to foster genuine connections and build trust in personal and professional settings.
b. The word that is heard perishes, but the letter that is written remains.
The proverb "The word that is heard perishes, but the letter that is written remains" suggests that verbal communication is fleeting and easily forgotten, while written communication endures over time. It emphasizes the lasting impact of written words compared to spoken ones, highlighting the permanence and preservation of written communication. This proverb underscores the importance of documenting information, thoughts, and sentiments through writing, as it allows for greater retention, clarity, and accessibility.
Context:
This proverb is often used in discussions about the advantages of written communication over oral communication, particularly in preserving important messages, records, and historical documentation. It underscores the significance of written forms of communication, such as letters, books, and official documents, in recording and transmitting information across time and space. Additionally, it highlights the enduring value of written expressions, such as literature, poetry, and personal correspondence, in capturing emotions, insights, and cultural heritage.
Example:
Imagine a poet who shares their verses through spoken performances at various events. While the audience may be moved by the poet's words in the moment, the impact of the performance may fade over time as memories dim and details are forgotten. However, if the poet were to publish their poems in a book, the written words would endure, reaching a wider audience and preserving the poet's artistic legacy for generations to come. In this example, the proverb "The word that is heard perishes, but the letter that is written remains" applies because it illustrates the difference in longevity between spoken and written forms of communication.
Explanation:
This proverb highlights the enduring value and permanence of written communication compared to oral communication. While spoken words may evoke immediate emotions or reactions, they are often fleeting and subject to the limitations of memory and interpretation. In contrast, written words can be preserved, referenced, and shared over time, allowing for greater accuracy, clarity, and accessibility of information. Whether through books, letters, or digital media, written communication serves as a reliable means of recording and transmitting knowledge, ideas, and experiences across generations. Thus, the proverb emphasizes the importance of documenting important information through writing to ensure its preservation and dissemination over time.
c. The palest ink is better than the sharpest memory.
The proverb "The palest ink is better than the sharpest memory" suggests that it is more reliable and effective to record information in writing, even if it is faint or pale, than to rely solely on memory, no matter how sharp it may be. It emphasizes the importance of documenting important details, thoughts, and experiences through writing to ensure their accuracy and preservation over time. This proverb underscores the limitations of human memory and the value of written records in preventing forgetfulness, misinterpretation, and loss of information.
Context:
This proverb is often used in discussions about the advantages of written documentation and the limitations of relying solely on memory. It highlights the importance of note-taking, journaling, and record-keeping in various contexts, including education, business, and personal life. Whether in academic studies, professional projects, or personal reflections, the proverb underscores the benefits of documenting information through writing to facilitate learning, decision-making, and communication.
Example:
Consider a student who attends a lecture and relies on their memory to recall key points discussed by the professor. Despite their best efforts, the student may forget certain details or misunderstand others, leading to incomplete or inaccurate comprehension of the material. Alternatively, if the student takes notes during the lecture using even the faintest ink, they can refer back to their written records later to review and reinforce their understanding of the subject matter. In this example, the proverb "The palest ink is better than the sharpest memory" applies because it illustrates the advantage of written documentation in supplementing and enhancing memory recall.
Explanation:
This proverb highlights the inherent limitations of human memory and the benefits of written documentation in preserving information. While memory can be fallible, subject to forgetfulness, distortion, and bias, written records offer a reliable and tangible means of recording and retrieving information. Whether through handwritten notes, printed documents, or digital archives, written records provide a permanent record of facts, ideas, and experiences that can be referenced, shared, and preserved over time. By acknowledging the superiority of written documentation over memory alone, the proverb emphasizes the importance of documenting important information through writing to ensure its accuracy, accessibility, and longevity.
d. Learn to handle a writing-brush and you will never handle a begging bowl.
The proverb "Learn to handle a writing-brush and you will never handle a begging bowl" suggests that acquiring the skill of writing, particularly in the context of creating literature or engaging in intellectual pursuits, can lead to self-sufficiency and prosperity. It implies that cultivating one's talents and abilities, particularly in areas related to education, creativity, or intellectual pursuits, can empower individuals to achieve success and independence. This proverb underscores the value of education, skill development, and self-reliance in securing a stable and prosperous future.
Context:
This proverb is often used in discussions about the importance of education, literacy, and skill acquisition in improving one's socioeconomic status and quality of life. It highlights the transformative power of learning and intellectual pursuits in enabling individuals to overcome adversity and achieve self-sufficiency. Whether in traditional academic disciplines, artistic endeavors, or vocational skills, the proverb emphasizes the significance of investing in personal development and lifelong learning.
Example:
Consider a young person from a disadvantaged background who dedicates themselves to learning and mastering the art of writing. Through education, practice, and perseverance, they develop their writing skills and eventually become a successful author, journalist, or screenwriter. By leveraging their writing talent, the individual earns a sustainable income, gains recognition and respect in their field, and achieves financial independence. In this example, the proverb "Learn to handle a writing-brush and you will never handle a begging bowl" applies because it illustrates the transformative power of education and skill development in overcoming poverty and achieving prosperity.
Explanation:
This proverb emphasizes the importance of education, skill development, and self-reliance in securing a stable and prosperous future. By encouraging individuals to cultivate their talents and abilities, particularly in areas related to writing and intellectual pursuits, the proverb promotes the idea that learning is a pathway to empowerment and economic security. It suggests that investing in education and skill acquisition can equip individuals with the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in life, thereby reducing reliance on external assistance or charity. Ultimately, the proverb underscores the value of personal initiative, resilience, and self-improvement in achieving long-term prosperity and fulfillment.
e. Even the best writer has to erase.
The proverb "Even the best writer has to erase" suggests that the process of writing involves revision, editing, and refinement, regardless of one's skill or expertise. It emphasizes the importance of editing and revising one's work to improve clarity, coherence, and effectiveness. This proverb underscores the idea that writing is an iterative process that requires diligence, attention to detail, and a willingness to make revisions in pursuit of excellence.
Context:
This proverb is commonly used in discussions about the writing process, creative expression, and artistic endeavors. It highlights the universal experience of writers, regardless of their proficiency, needing to revise and refine their work to achieve the desired outcome. Whether in literature, journalism, academic writing, or any other form of writing, the proverb underscores the importance of embracing the editing process as an essential aspect of craftsmanship and quality.
Example:
Consider a renowned author who spends months crafting a novel, pouring their creativity and expertise into every word. Despite their talent and experience, the author recognizes the necessity of revising and refining the manuscript multiple times to polish the storyline, develop characters, and enhance the overall narrative flow. Through careful editing and feedback from editors or peers, the author eliminates inconsistencies, strengthens plot points, and refines language to create a compelling and cohesive final product. In this example, the proverb "Even the best writer has to erase" applies because it illustrates the universal need for writers to engage in revision and editing to produce high-quality work.
Explanation:
This proverb emphasizes the iterative nature of the writing process and the importance of revision in achieving excellence. It acknowledges that even the most skilled writers encounter imperfections, inconsistencies, or areas for improvement in their initial drafts. By embracing the need for revision and editing, writers demonstrate humility, professionalism, and a commitment to producing their best work. The process of erasing or revising allows writers to refine their ideas, clarify their message, and enhance the impact of their writing on the audience. Ultimately, the proverb underscores the idea that writing is a craft that requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to engage in continuous improvement through revision and editing.
f. Write what you know.
The phrase "Write what you know" is often used as advice for writers, encouraging them to draw upon their personal experiences, emotions, and insights when creating fiction or nonfiction. It suggests that writers can produce more authentic, compelling work by exploring subjects, themes, and characters that resonate with their own lives or areas of expertise. This proverb emphasizes the importance of authenticity, sincerity, and emotional resonance in writing, suggesting that personal connection to the material can enhance the depth and richness of storytelling.
Context:
This proverb is frequently cited in discussions about writing craft, creativity, and storytelling techniques. It underscores the idea that writers can imbue their work with authenticity and emotional depth by drawing upon their own experiences, observations, and emotions. Whether in literature, journalism, memoir, or creative nonfiction, the proverb encourages writers to explore themes and subjects that are personally meaningful or familiar to them.
Example:
Consider a novelist who draws inspiration from their childhood experiences growing up in a small town. By weaving elements of their own upbringing, relationships, and observations into the narrative, the novelist creates a vivid and authentic portrayal of small-town life, capturing the nuances of community dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and cultural identity. Through their personal connection to the material, the novelist infuses the story with emotional resonance and depth, engaging readers on a deeper level.
Explanation:
This proverb highlights the value of personal authenticity and emotional resonance in writing. By drawing upon their own experiences, perspectives, and emotions, writers can create work that feels genuine, relatable, and emotionally compelling. Writing what one knows allows writers to tap into their unique insights, memories, and observations, infusing their work with authenticity and depth. While this approach does not preclude imagination or research, it emphasizes the importance of personal connection to the material as a source of inspiration and creative energy. Ultimately, the proverb encourages writers to explore the rich tapestry of their own lives and experiences as a fertile ground for storytelling, self-expression, and artistic exploration.
g. Teach the writer, not the writing.
The statement "Teach the writer, not the writing" suggests that effective writing instruction should focus on nurturing the skills, creativity, and individual voice of the writer rather than simply imparting rules or techniques of writing. It emphasizes the importance of fostering a writer's growth, confidence, and self-expression through personalized guidance, feedback, and mentorship. This approach prioritizes the development of critical thinking, self-awareness, and craft in writers, empowering them to explore their unique perspectives and style.
Context:
This statement is often used in discussions about writing pedagogy, creative writing workshops, and writing instruction. It underscores the idea that writing is a deeply personal and subjective endeavor that requires individualized support and encouragement to flourish. Whether in academic settings, writing communities, or professional development programs, the statement emphasizes the importance of cultivating writers' skills, confidence, and artistic vision.
Example:
Consider a writing instructor who mentors aspiring authors in a creative writing workshop. Instead of focusing solely on teaching writing techniques or genres, the instructor prioritizes building a supportive and collaborative learning environment where writers feel empowered to explore their own ideas, experiment with different styles, and receive constructive feedback on their work. Through personalized guidance, encouragement, and mentorship, the instructor helps each writer develop their unique voice, hone their craft, and overcome creative challenges. In this example, the statement "Teach the writer, not the writing" applies because it illustrates the importance of nurturing writers' growth, confidence, and self-expression through individualized instruction and support.
Explanation:
This statement underscores the holistic approach to writing instruction that prioritizes the development of writers' skills, confidence, and artistic vision. By focusing on the writer as an individual with unique strengths, interests, and perspectives, instructors can create a supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and self-awareness. Rather than prescribing rigid rules or formulas for writing success, this approach encourages writers to explore their own creative instincts, experiment with different techniques, and discover their authentic voice. Ultimately, teaching the writer involves providing personalized guidance, constructive feedback, and mentorship that empowers writers to develop their craft, express themselves authentically, and find fulfillment in their creative endeavors.
h. Never write a letter when you are angry.
The proverb "Never write a letter when you are angry" advises against communicating in writing while experiencing intense emotions, particularly anger. It suggests that writing in a state of anger may lead to impulsive or regrettable expressions that can strain relationships, damage reputations, or escalate conflicts. This proverb emphasizes the importance of maintaining emotional control and clarity before engaging in written communication to ensure the message is conveyed thoughtfully and effectively.
Context:
This proverb is commonly used in discussions about effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. It highlights the potential pitfalls of communicating impulsively or emotionally, particularly in written form, where words can be preserved and circulated indefinitely. Whether in personal correspondence, professional emails, or social media posts, the proverb underscores the need for restraint and reflection before expressing strong emotions in writing.
Example:
Imagine a person who receives a hurtful email from a colleague and immediately drafts a scathing response in a fit of anger. In their haste to retaliate, they send the email without taking the time to cool off or consider the potential consequences of their words. Later, upon reflection, they regret their impulsive response and recognize that it has only exacerbated the conflict and damaged their professional relationship. In this example, the proverb "Never write a letter when you are angry" applies because it illustrates the negative outcomes that can result from communicating in writing while in a state of anger.
Explanation:
This proverb emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation and mindfulness in written communication. It recognizes that emotions such as anger can cloud judgment, impair reasoning, and lead to communication breakdowns if not managed effectively. By advising against writing letters or messages in a state of anger, the proverb encourages individuals to take a step back, process their emotions, and consider the implications of their words before responding. This approach allows for greater clarity, perspective, and empathy in communication, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings, conflicts, or irreversible damage to relationships. Ultimately, the proverb serves as a reminder to exercise restraint and thoughtfulness in written communication, particularly when emotions are running high.
i. Writing makes a perfect man.
The proverb "Writing makes a perfect man" suggests that the act of writing, whether through journaling, composing essays, or crafting literature, contributes to personal growth, refinement, and self-improvement. It implies that engaging in writing fosters intellectual development, clarity of thought, and mastery of language, ultimately contributing to the cultivation of a well-rounded and accomplished individual. This proverb emphasizes the transformative power of writing as a tool for self-expression, reflection, and intellectual exploration.
Context:
This proverb is often used in discussions about the benefits of writing for personal development, education, and self-expression. It underscores the idea that writing is not only a means of communication but also a vehicle for self-discovery, learning, and refinement. Whether in academic pursuits, creative endeavors, or professional writing, the proverb highlights the enduring value of writing as a pathway to intellectual growth and self-improvement.
Example:
Consider a student who diligently maintains a journal, reflecting on their thoughts, experiences, and aspirations through writing. Over time, the act of writing helps the student clarify their goals, articulate their values, and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through the process of writing, the student hones their analytical skills, expands their vocabulary, and refines their ability to express ideas effectively. In this example, the proverb "Writing makes a perfect man" applies because it illustrates the transformative impact of writing on personal growth, intellectual development, and self-awareness.
Explanation:
This proverb underscores the idea that writing is not only a means of communication but also a form of intellectual exercise that promotes personal growth and self-improvement. By engaging in writing, individuals refine their language skills, organize their thoughts, and clarify their ideas, ultimately becoming more articulate and proficient communicators. Moreover, writing facilitates self-expression, introspection, and creativity, allowing individuals to explore their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a structured and reflective manner. Whether through academic writing, creative writing, or personal journaling, the act of writing fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. Ultimately, the proverb "Writing makes a perfect man" celebrates the transformative power of writing as a catalyst for personal growth, intellectual development, and self-realization.
j. writing is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration.
The statement "Writing is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration" suggests that while creativity and inspiration are important elements of the writing process, the majority of the work involves effort, discipline, and hard work. It emphasizes the notion that successful writing requires dedication, perseverance, and the willingness to put in the necessary time and effort to develop ideas, refine drafts, and overcome challenges. This proverb underscores the importance of diligence, commitment, and discipline in achieving writing goals and producing high-quality work.
Context:
This statement is often used in discussions about the writing process, creativity, and productivity. It highlights the misconception that writing is solely reliant on bursts of inspiration or flashes of creativity, when in reality, the most significant progress is made through consistent effort and hard work. Whether in professional writing, academic research, or creative endeavors, the statement emphasizes the importance of disciplined practice and perseverance in achieving success.
Example:
Consider a novelist who dreams of writing a best-selling book. While they may have moments of inspiration where ideas flow effortlessly, the majority of their time is spent in the laborious process of drafting, revising, and editing their manuscript. They dedicate countless hours to research, planning, and refining their writing, often facing challenges and setbacks along the way. Despite the hard work involved, their persistence pays off as they eventually complete their novel and see it published to critical acclaim. In this example, the statement "Writing is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration" applies because it illustrates the significant effort and perseverance required to achieve success in writing.
Explanation:
This statement emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and hard work in the writing process. While inspiration and creativity are essential starting points, they alone are not sufficient to produce polished, high-quality writing. Instead, successful writing requires sustained effort, dedication, and resilience in overcoming challenges, refining ideas, and revising drafts to achieve excellence. By acknowledging the importance of perspiration in addition to inspiration, writers can cultivate a mindset of discipline and commitment, allowing them to navigate the complexities of the writing process with determination and resilience. Ultimately, the statement underscores the idea that writing is a labor-intensive endeavor that requires consistent effort and perseverance to achieve success.
2. Some of these proverbs tell you about the value and importance of writing. Others point to the hard work required to achieve effective writing skills and still others point to the need to think clearly before we write.
Write a paragraph of 150 words on how writing is a form of discipline which can help us to improve ourselves.
Writing serves as a form of discipline that fosters personal growth and self-improvement by cultivating clarity of thought, effective communication skills, and critical thinking abilities. Through the process of writing, individuals learn to articulate their ideas, organize their thoughts, and express themselves with precision and coherence. This disciplined practice requires focus, persistence, and attention to detail, as writers must carefully craft their words to convey meaning accurately and persuasively. Moreover, writing encourages self-reflection and introspection, allowing individuals to explore their beliefs, values, and experiences in a structured and intentional manner. By engaging in regular writing exercises, whether through journaling, academic essays, or creative writing projects, individuals develop greater self-awareness, empathy, and insight into themselves and the world around them. Ultimately, writing as a form of discipline empowers individuals to refine their communication skills, clarify their ideas, and deepen their understanding of themselves and the complexities of the human experience.
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