Recipe For Living: The Artistry of Words

By Kandy Derden Go, See, Do Editor

I love words.

Words mean things.

If I were a betting person, I think there would be times when it would be extremely tempting to make a wager. Of course, since I am not a risk-taker, that would only occur if it was an absolutely no-risk proposition. I’m not sure such a thing exists, unless you consider something which is common to everybody. I suspect every single person has at one time or another said the worst possible thing at the absolute worst possible moment.

A slip of the tongue can be maddening, painful or just plain embarrassing, to say the least. However, a word or comment spoken appropriately is always welcome. There is a verse in the Holy Bible which is commonly used to illustrate the value of a well-spoken word.

Proverbs 25:11 tells us: A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. Another interesting translation is: Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. Whether written or spoken, each of these versions are an inspiring word picture which creates a beautiful mental image.

While doing research about the meaning attached to this verse, I found several commentaries. They all had one thing in common; they were long! However, I can’t say they were necessary. The verse itself conveys a pretty simple message in a lovely way.

There is a lot which can be said about brevity. But then, that would defeat the point of using words creatively. We’ve all met people who simply cannot answer a question without an excessive amount of vocal processing. True, there are times it helps to verbalize your options because it helps sort through the pros and cons and arrive at a decision. But others figure, why so much jabber when a word or two is sufficient? Why indeed?

Entertainment value is one good reason. For instance, let’s look at the following examples and find out how long it takes for you to comprehend what is being said.

“Not knowing, I feel a certain delicacy in articulating lest I deviate from the nebular hypotheses of the truth.” That’s a rather complex response to any question. So, let’s edit a bit. “Since I’m not exactly certain, I hesitate to guess because I don’t want to spread incorrect information.” Still too long? These phrases are great for writers who get paid by the word. But for clarity, I prefer short and simple. The simplest way to say it is, “I don’t know.” If a non-verbal reply is required, a simple shoulder shrug will do.

For those who respond without speaking or using gestures, the written word is necessary. Such an example might be the following description, which is one of my favorites. A cylindrically shaped, wood encased, enamel enrobed, graphite written communication device with an error eradication nodule conveniently located on the end. Otherwise known as: a pencil.

Here is an example of small words versus large words. If there was ever something which needed to be planned, organized, delegated, overseen, controlled, produced and finished, it would seem I am the only person who can be relied upon to accomplish the completion of such task. Surely there is a simpler version of this personal philosophy. Try this on for size: if it is to be, it is up to me! I just can’t make it any simpler. Regardless of which way you prefer, an appropriate word, spoken at a suitable time is always welcome.

Artistry is evidenced in a lot more ways than the written word. Let’s consider for a moment the artistry found in nature. Besides the natural beauty found in a brilliant blue sky or a field of flowers, or the majesty of a mountain range, there is also the mesmerizing ocean waves. Don’t even get me started on the beauty of the stars, or better yet, the movements of the planets and their moons which are as artistic as synchronized dancers. I’ll admit, I enjoy watching an eclipse. Not only is there the visual reminder of the scientific precision present in the universe, but also the control of God who not only created beauty and science, but chose to give us a combination of both.

Speaking of an eclipse, there is one coming in April. Have you selected your spot for viewing? There are still prime locations available. If you can’t make your way to any of the best places along the path it will take, there will be news coverage of it from various sources. Wherever you have your viewing party, here is a recipe perfectly suited to the occasion. It is a recipe from my husband’s grandmother. We know it was created a long time ago because the original version called for five cent candy bars. It has been updated and the instructions have been simplified. Are you curious? Have you figured it out yet? It is none other than Milky Way Cake.

MILKY WAY CAKE

6 regular size Milky Way Bars

2 sticks margarine

2 c. sugar

1 c. buttermilk

4 eggs

2 ½ c. flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. vanilla

1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a tube pan, a 9 x 13” sheet pan or two loaf pans. Lightly dust with sugar. Chop candy bars into small pieces and melt together with 1 stick margarine. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, cream sugar with 1 stick melted margarine. Add vanilla and cooled candy mixture. Add eggs one at a time, and mix well after each. Sift flour and baking soda together, add alternately with milk. Fold in nuts if desired. Transfer to pan and bake 30-45 minutes, depending on pan size. No icing is required but you may add a vanilla, caramel or chocolate glaze if desired.

What could possibly be more appropriate during an eclipse? Try it. Your family and friends are sure to love it. In fact, you can bet on it!