On Abstracts

How do you really measure time, distance, etc.?

I will always hammer on you to avoid abstract measurements. Instead, how does your character measure time, weight, age, distance?

From Jim Murray a Los Angeles Times columnist, circa 1973:

L.A. Country Club, apart from its exclusivity, is noteworthy because it sits athwart what must be the most expensive cluster of real estate in the world. It is almost in the center of Beverly Hills, and its two golf courses have nearly a mile of front footage along Wilshire Boulevard. It is a 2-iron from Saks Fifth Avenue, I. Magnin, Tiffany’s and the most expensive furriers and jewelers and boutiques in the world.

“It is a 2-iron from Saks Fifth Avenue…” Not meaning the length of the club itself, but the distance the ball travels when hit with such a club.

Also notable is how he uses the Joan Didion Trick:

“…the most expensive furriers and jewelers and boutiques in the world.”

If you’re going to do a series of three (do it rarely) use a conjunction between each of the items, not a comma. Joan Didion did it this way, and it always occurs as fresh.

I adore that. Write from inside your character.

The offer of a bookmark was intended for Branden, who’d asked the question about Damned. I’m sorry for the confusion. Sit tight, and there will be other chances for swag.