Today’s A to Z writing challenge is “I” for Insidious. Every so often I learn a new word when I search for synonyms. As an author I want my readers to increase their vocabulary. Our brain has the capacity; we just need to put in the effort. To not do so would be insidious, defined as:
1. Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects: “the insidious effects of stress”.
2. Treacherous; crafty: “an insidious alliance”.
In my trilogy, “The Chosen One of Allivar”, I refer to the slow plot of Haggarfuse to gain an unholy alliance. I just didn’t realize how insidious my thinking was.
If you are a writer, sometimes you may have mental blocks for words that express the meaning of the moment. Thankfully we have books on our shelves and the all powerful and sometimes insidious Google. I use synonyms from Thesaurus.com where I can find new words to use in my narrative. Whenever I look at some of Jane Austen’s narratives, I become envious of her vocabulary. I want to learn more, but the stresses of writing part-time limit the number of hours per day to increase knowledge.
What’s more insidious is that you may be the only one using the word, while others look at you with an insidious glance as though you are insane and out of the loop of social conversation. I recall many years ago when the word “contrite” was spoken all around as though it was common day speak. Then fast forward a few years and it disappeared again. Nowadays the catch word is “sustainability” and will be for a period of time. It’s all an insidious plot.
When you read my trilogy, just know there are insidious plots throughout. See how many you can uncover. If you are unable to discover them, there is no need to be contrite and your sustainability will be unaffected. Oooh, I am so insidious!
