Ding, ding, ding!
Get ready as we blow the lid off this latest blog post. Boom!
Here it comes: onomatopoeia.
It’s no secret I enjoy history, humor, and writing. The cartoon below encompasses some of each of those interests.
Have you sprinkled onomatopoeia in your writing lately?
Onomatopoeia [on-uh-mat-uh–pee–uh]
noun
- the formation of a word, as cuckoo, meow, honk, or boom, by imitation of a sound made by or associated with its referent.
- a word so formed.
- the use of imitative and naturally suggestive words for rhetorical, dramatic, or poetic effect.
Origin of onomatopoeia: Late Latin/Greek
< Greek onomatopoiía making of words = onomato- (combining form of ónoma name ) + poi- (stem of poieîn to make; see poet ) + -ia –ia> (source: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/onomatopoeia)
Edgar Allen Poe’s poem The Bells is an interesting example of the use of onomatopoeia.
Re-reading the Poe’s Bells. Thanks for reminding about the fun with onomatopoeia words.
Welcome, Nancy! I thought The Bells was an interesting work by Poe.
Reblogged this on Markers in a Writing Life.
Appreciate that, Nancy. Thanks!
It’s a kids book, but Is amazing for onomataoeia.
http://www.amazon.com/Bumpa-Rumpus-Rainy-Joanne-Reay/dp/0395710383
Yes, it is and good for any age. Thanks for the post.
I used to read comic books, which were loaded with onomatopoeia. I like it in poetry and kids books too, but haven’t come across it much in books for adults. I suppose it’s another tool in the writer’s kit.
Absolutely, D. Wallace Peach. Thanks for the post.