The Elements of Expression, Revised and Expanded Edition
Putting Thoughts into Words

Quotes

“Mr. Plotnik challenges his readers to set themselves apart…Genuinely funny.” New York Journal of Books

“[An] entertaining potpourri of thoughts about words…A helpful little compendium for writers and speaking wishing to brush up on their prose.” Publishers Weekly

“Richard Waterhouse’ interpretive skills and playful approach make this thoughtful book on writing shine in the audio format. With youthful and reasoned enthusiasm, he reads long sentences, lists, and quotations with razor clarity and sounds authentically engaged with the author’s ideas and sensibilities. He’s especially effective when reading the examples offered on oral presentations, which allow listeners to hear how phrasing, tone, and emphasis can vary. For experienced writers and newbies alike, this is an invaluable book on how one’s choice of words can influence the formality, style, and effectiveness of our writing.” AudioFile

“Funny and fundamentally helpful.” Constance Hale, author of Sin and Syntax

“With sincerity, humor, and the occasional precision-lobbed ‘grenade,’ Plotnik teaches by example, demonstrating dozens of ways we can ‘abuse’ English and add interest and tension to dozy prose—all without forsaking authenticity and restraint.” Carol Fisher Saller, author of The Subversive Copy Editor

“Plotnick succeeds where many writers fail. he not only enlightens, he entertains. To be guided by such a sure and steady hand is a delight—a romp through the ever-changing trends of taste and style that shape our use of English.” Stephen Wilbers, author of Keys to Great Writing