In a recent social media post, I replied to someone’s post about the importance of being able to describe or explain something briefly and simply. I forgot which famous quote about the topic they used, perhaps Einstein’s “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”  I’m proud to say that I responded as the poet that my mom always said I was.

We live in a world of chatter and noise. I sense that some important things that are said, written or shared are being lost in what has become the white noise of life today. We have lost the discipline of only sharing when there is something worth sharing; we are slow in relinquishing the spotlight when it is on us while we are sharing. Perhaps, in today’s world of too much opportunity to “communicate,” the old expression of “less is more” holds great truth and value.

I have always loved the writing instruction scene in the movie, “A River Runs Through It.” The challenge of “half as long” sharpens thought, organization and expression, which are useful skills to have when trying to communicate.

So, how did I respond poet-like to the aforementioned social media post?  I suggested that folks should consider whatever idea, thought or inspiration they had and write a haiku about it. 17 syllables over three lines (5, 7, 5). That’s all. That tightens the message but not so much that the reader does not have plenty of room for their imagination and thoughts to flow freely,  inspired by the brief expression. Not that we need to all start conversing in haikus, but it is a good exercise. I think my mom would be proud.

Simply said…say it simply.