Communication Archives

Weather in Literature: Rain Is Never Just Rain

Why is weather so important in literature? Why is rain the most commonly used weather symbol and what does it mean? The setting of a story informs the mood, the attitude of the characters, and the presentation of the themes. One of the most important elements of the setting is the weather. In literature, weather plays many roles such as a plot device, a way to set the atmosphere, a symbol for cleansing or misery, and much more. Keep reading to learn what different types of weather symbolize in literature.

Why Is English Used as the World’s Lingua Franca?

What is English as lingua franca? What are the characteristics of the language that made it easier for people all over the globe to adopt and spread it? English as a lingua franca refers to the use of English by non-native speakers as a language of choice. While English does have some competitive advantages over many other languages in terms of ease of adoption, they are not the main reason English has become the global language. In this article, we will explore the phenomenon of English as a lingua franca.

Symbolism of Seasons in Literature: Explained

Why are seasons so important in literature? What do the different seasons represent? Seasons can symbolically enhance a reader’s sense of themes and characters. Over time, seasons have been used so frequently as symbols that each season now has ingrained meanings. Keep reading to find out what each season means symbolically in literature.

How to Create a One-Page Business Plan (+Template)

Why should you write a one-page business plan? What information should it cover? Business plans can be long and super-detailed, but they don’t have to be. In fact, a one-page business plan can sometimes be better and more persuasive than a comprehensive document. This one-page business plan template will help you outline the key facets of your business idea.

Fun Puns: English Wordplay, Wit, and Whimsy

Do you enjoy coming up with fun and witty puns? What are the different types of wordplay in English? The flexibility of the English language affords ample opportunity for creative wordplay. Besides puns and rhymes, some of the most notable forms of English wordplay include palindromes, anagrams, lipograms, and holorimes. Here are some fun English wordplay techniques for you to try.

Interpreting Symbols and Metaphors in Literature

Why is it so difficult to interpret symbols in literature? What do you do if an author uses unique symbols? Interpreting symbols in literature isn’t always easy. Literary symbols can sometimes overlap, develop new meanings over time, or be unique to an author. However, there are some common symbols and themes you can look out for. Continue on for more information about interpreting literary symbols.

The Germanic Origins of the English Language

Where did English come from? What are the origins of the English language? English is a Germanic language whose origins date back to the mid-5th century CE. The story of English began when the Germanic peoples known as the Angles and Saxons, hailing from what is now Northern Germany, began migrating to and conquering the Roman province of Britannia. Keep reading to learn about the origins of the English language.

Dating Down: Why It Can Ruin Your Happiness

What is dating down? Is it bad for your happiness and future plans? In The Defining Decade, Meg Jay says that not dating down is an important part of finding a life partner. Dating down means dating someone you would’ve dated in your past, before you were mature or at the point in your life you’re at now. Read more about dating down and why you should avoid it.

The Cohabitation Effect: Should You Live Together?

What is the cohabitation effect? What is its effect on relationships? The cohabitation effect is when a couple cohabitates without making a strong commitment or begins cohabiting by accident. The cohabitation effect can have negative consequences for relationships. Read more about the cohabitation effect below.

The Great Vowel Shift: Changing Pronunciation Forever

What was the Great Vowel Shift in the history of the English language? How did it change the pronunciation of English vowels? The Great Vowel Shift was a change in the pronunciation of English vowels that took place roughly between 1400 and 1600. Basically, the pronunciation of long vowels moved forward, that is, closer to the front of the mouth. Keep reading to learn about the Great Vowel Shift.