Fact and/or Embellishment?

The other day some writers and I were discussing the difference between fact and embellishment. Every time I think about embellishment, lawyers pop into my head. They can take a simple word and turn it into an hour speech. Then there’s the simple “yes or no” answer that results in a politician’s ramblings. However, writers definitely have an advantage if they can use embellishment properly.

Many times a writer presents facts in a cold, dry read manner. For instance, how many times have you read an economics book that just has you spellbound for hours? Not many, probably. However, take those same facts and embellish on them a bit. Apply the facts to a real-life scenario. Then, you just may be able to keep your readers’ attention.

What is an embellishment? According to the dictionary it means ‘expand, enlarge, elongate’. How does that apply to writing? Well, take a cold fact and have your readers use one or more of their senses. In a manner of speaking, this is a form of creative writing. You, as the writer, are creating something enticing for your reader. Here’s an example:

Fact: The 5×5 room was on the building’s ground floor.

Embellishment: The well-lit, cozy 5×5 room was safely and conveniently located on the building’s ground floor.

The factual statement simply tells readers in a no-nonsense manner about the room. There is no involvement of enticement or emotions. It is “just the facts, ma’am”. (Remember ‘Dragnet’?)

The embellishment has readers visualizing the room’s atmosphere. Your readers will ’see’ a room that is cozy to them. They’ll also see it lit up. Some may visualize spotlights, some overhead lights, etc. And, the remainder of the sentence will have your readers ‘feeling’ the safe and convenient room.

Embellishment of facts makes for a good read. It stimulates your readers minds. This, in turn, will have them becoming active readers. If used properly, embellishment will also have your readers wanting more of your writing.

Using embellishment can be fun and challenging. Try it…