As writers, we can have a unique relationship with words. We work closely with them and therefore can develop a singular appreciation for their texture and flavour. Now, I don't know about you, but there are some words that I just hate. For no discernable, rational reason. They just irritate me. It's not their meaning, it's the word itself. For example, the word 'excursion' can send me into spasms of rage simply at the sight of it. I fucking hate that word and I have no idea why. It's just so utterly irritating. Similar words, such as 'explosion' or 'expiation' don't bother me at all, but 'excursion' will have me clenching my teeth and turning my nose up with unbridled contempt.
There are other words too. 'Chutney'. What a horrible, ugly, irritating word that is. I have no problem at all with the condiment. We get along just fine. But the word. It makes my flesh crawl. Chutney. I can scarcely bring myself to write it.
Madness.
On the other hand, of course, there are those words which I simply adore, with just as little justification. I adore the word 'curmudgeon'. What a great word! It always makes me smile. It's so warm and cuddly. In direct contrast to its meaning. Curmudgeon. Say it with me now.
And how about the word 'unction'. I love that word! Place it in tandem with the word 'emollient' and I get a pleasant little tickly feeling in my stomach. Unctions and emollients. How cool does that sound?
Lunacy.
So how about you? What words irritate or delight you for no apparent reason.
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