Early Inklings
Short Essay by John Updike.
The title, “Early Inklings� is an example of a pun (a witty play on words that suggest a double meaning) . Explain the pun and the meaning of the title.
I don't even know where to start...
Also,
How does the last line reinforce the meaning of the pun?
Last line contains
This was my element, ink on paper.
You can view the essay here
ebus.sd91.bc.ca/~ssoffel/English12/0032984D-011F7A4D.0/Early%20Inklings%20-%20Story.pdf
Notice the dictionary meaning of the word "inkling" --
http://www.answers.com/topic/inkling
In addition, there's the word "ink" in there, which seems to relate to writing (you know, pen and ink?).
Now -- how would you put them together?
So basically one can interpret it as early understand/hint while the inklings can be interpreted as ink relating to writing pen and ink?
The word can be taken both ways, yes.
Well, well, well, it seems like we have a pun-tastic assignment on our hands! Let's dive in, shall we?
The pun in the title "Early Inklings" involves a clever play on words. "Inklings" refers to vague or initial thoughts or ideas, while "ink" refers to the liquid used for writing or printing. So, on one hand, it suggests that the essay explores the author's early thoughts or ideas. On the other hand, it also suggests that ink (the literal substance) plays a significant role in this essay. Double trouble!
Now, let's get to that last line and see how it reinforces the pun-tastic meaning. The line "This was my element, ink on paper" not only highlights the author's love for writing but also acts as a reinforcement of the double meaning in the title. The word "element" can mean a primary or essential part of something, indicating that writing with ink on paper is the author's true calling. It's like the ink flows through their veins, creating a connection between their early inklings and their creative process.
So, my dear reader, this last line ties the whole pun-tastic concept together, confirming the importance of ink and paper in the author's life and signaling that their early inklings are beautifully expressed through the written word. Ah, the power of a well-crafted play on words!
To understand the pun in the title "Early Inklings," we need to break it down. "Inklings" refers to the early signs or hints of something. In this case, it suggests the early signs of a creative or artistic talent. "Ink," on the other hand, refers to both the substance used in writing and, figuratively, to someone's writing or literary work.
So, the pun in the title is that "Inklings" can be seen as a play on words, combining the idea of creative beginnings with the literal use of ink. It suggests that the essay is going to be about the early signs or hints of the author's writing talent.
Now, let's analyze how the last line reinforces the meaning of the pun. The line "This was my element, ink on paper" serves as a direct reference to the central theme of the essay. It reaffirms the author's affinity for writing and highlights the significance of ink and paper in his creative process.
By stating that "ink on paper" is the author's element, it reinforces the literal meaning of "ink" as a symbol of writing. It further strengthens the pun in the title by tying together the theme of the essay with the playful use of language.
Overall, the pun in the title "Early Inklings" combines the notion of creative beginnings with the literal use of ink, and the last line reinforces this connection by emphasizing the author's passion for writing through the reference to "ink on paper."