The Word Game - a Great Way to Meet Talented Authors!

You may have noticed that more and more people on Associated Content have begun to play my simple word game. Curious? Read on to find out how the word game came about, the fascinating people that have been playing it, and how you can play the word game too.

When a friend sent me five random words to write about, I was surprised to find that these simple words had connotations for me almost immediately, like a variation on a Rorshach test. I began writing about them almost as a visceral response. My words were finish, carry, sound, fact and moment. Nothing flashy, totally random, and yet I responded to them. You can read that original article by clicking here.

When I decided to post my reactions to these five simple words, it occurred to me that the wordsmiths on Associated Content might enjoy doing something similar. Given the popularity of the haiku contests, this seemed like another way to get to know some of the other talented Associated Content writers' work. I wasn't sure what kind of response to expect, but both on my own article and in the community forums, I opened up the word game to anyone who wanted to play.

At first responses trickled in, but soon began to snowball as people read what their favorites had done with the words I'd assigned them.

I began keeping a list of words to draw from. Since more and more people have asked to play, I now type their names in a chart, then cut and paste words from my list beside their name, trying not to repeat any words. Then I send them their five words. I always visit each person's profile page, glance at their profile and article titles, and choose one to read and comment on. In the ongoing quest for words, I began seeing words everywhere. I am currently reading "The Lord of the Rings" but I have trouble following the story since, rather than a tale of adventure, I see individual words.

I keep checking back to see who has completed their essay, and as I read the entries, I am delighted to get a glimpse in to each personality, find things in common with these clever writers, and make new friends.

The creativity has astonished me; the eloquence has impressed me; the introspection has touched me and made me think. Some people write poems; others make a sentence or two of their words. Each takes the time to share a bit of themselves and their unique take on the world.

If you would like to read eloquent, charming and introspective essays, and meet the interesting, friendly wordsmiths who can write such compelling tales, why don't you pay a visit to those who've chosen to play my little game? Jaipi Sixbear, Lois Lunsford, Catherine Spencer, Peter Flom,JerseyNana, Jolynne Hudnell, Lynn Mason, Joan Haines, R. K. Lobello, Delicia Powers, Mike Powers, Atlanta Page, Lorraine Yaps Cohen, and Catherine Dagger have participated so far.

There are more who have asked for words and will be adding their own take on life to our collection. If you would like to be one of them, I have plenty of words left. Just leave a comment asking for your words, and join the simple fun of our little Associated Content/ Yahoo word game! You'll be amazed, as I have been, at the clever, kind and talented new friends you will make.