The best kind of writing is the kind that makes you listen closely. It forces you to disappear into the words. To really connect with the beats of each word. And a little thing called sibilance is the secret of that strategy. But what is sibilance, and how do writers use it to enrapture readers? Today, we're going to go over the definition, look at some examples in literature, and even pull apart what makes sibilance different than techniques in writing. Let's not waste any time, and get started right away. Neve Campbell in 'Scream' Credit: Dimension Films What Is Sibilance? Definition and Examples for Writers Some words come with a hissing or even a hushing sound, words that help emphasize certain emotions and feelings. They also can be repeated to form a rhythm or rhyme. But there's way more to sibilance than that. Sibilance Definition Sibilance is the repetition of hushing or hissing sounds. Like in, "Sam sold serpents," or, "She had a hissy fit." The word “sibilance” has its origin in Latin, with the word “sibilare,” which actually means “to hiss” or “to whistle.” To create sibilance, you do not need to put "s" sounds directly next to each other in a sentence. Instead, they need to be close together within a sentence or paragraph. 'V for Vendetta' Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures What Sounds Are in Sibilance? We've covered the "s" sounds a little above. but as you know, there are other letters that make that sound....
Published By: NoFilmSchool - Friday, 8 March, 2024