[A Sip of Books] Engrave Your Own Image in the Other Person's Mind

Editor's NoteSome sentences encapsulate the entire content of a book, while others instantly resonate with the reader’s heart, creating a connection with the book. We introduce such meaningful sentences excerpted from books.

The author, who has long worked as a broadcast journalist handling words and writing, conveys the value of language beyond just a means of communication. A stylish person leaves a unique image in the mind of others through their own language, the lingering effect of their writing and speech. In that sense, writing and speaking are the most powerful tools to create communication and change the world in one’s own style. The key is to express oneself concisely (Short), with rhythm (Tone), considering the other person (You), in the present moment (Live), and with individuality (Expressive). This introduces ways to find attractive communication methods through each person’s own 'style.'

Ultimately, a stylish person is someone who neither adopts style nor follows it, according to the definition by teacher Lee Oi-ryeong. It’s a striking analysis of the Korean language we use unconsciously. (Omitted) Both authors defined style as something that breaks conventions. However, one said that stylelessness brings charm, while the other said charm comes with style. I see style in speaking and writing as follows: 「1. Style is not just about dressing well」

This makes me reconsider the importance of blank space. There is a lot of blank space between short sentences. There is always one less blank space than the number of sentences on a page. The blank space left where unnecessary words are removed increases the likelihood that the intended meaning is well conveyed. This is called the ‘space of implication.’ It reminds me of OO Comprehensive English from school days. We memorized “read between the lines” to understand the meaning between lines in English sentences, and now I finally understand. It also reminds me of the words of Monk Beopjeong: ‘Empty fullness.’ 「4. When you pause, communication flows」

Experts’ sentences are easy to read. They literally flow smoothly. The tone that brings out the style of speech comes from ‘rhythm.’ Words with rhythm resonate strongly with the listener and remain for a long time. That is why ‘tone’ is as important as the ‘message’ in speech or writing. In speech, rhythm comes from controlling the strength by emphasizing or de-emphasizing, while in writing, rhythm comes from writing concisely. Short sentences read rhythmically like a song, more so than long, verbose sentences. 「6. The unforgettable power of rhythm」

When writing for an audience, you must write so that the reader can finish reading. You need to be kind for interest and empathy. The choice of words, information, and level of explanation vary depending on the reader’s level. If you succeed in empathizing with the reader, you don’t have to plead for ‘likes’ and ‘subscriptions.’ I worry about the readers who will read my writing today as well. The moment I think of you, my writing is defined. Today, I was neglectful to them again. 「9. Who are you, reading my writing?」

It’s better to state the conclusion first and then provide additional explanation. This eliminates misunderstandings and makes things much clearer. In other words, it’s like an English-style answer. By clearly stating the subject and predicate and giving the conclusion upfront, followed by one, two, three explanations, there were no misunderstandings even with the professors listening. It seemed easier for them to take notes as well. 「12. Things I learned from being interviewed」

Do not talk about moisture and elasticity at the same time. If a product boasts moisture as its weapon, it abandons elasticity. That’s how it sticks in viewers’ minds and lasts long. That is the essence. There is no cosmetic that makes your skin glow, look younger, give elasticity, and remove wrinkles all at once. Just like there is no cure-all medicine. After much talk, nothing remains. 「14. Just speaking well can sustain your life」

Yoo Si-min’s style is not to write long (short), has a lively tone (tone), always thinks of the listener or reader (you), and expresses with flavor. Ko Un’s style is the epitome of brevity (short), has a ‘Ko Un style’ easily recognizable even in blind wine tests (tone), empathizes with readers (you), is optimized for recitation but alive even when just read (live). All of this culminates in rich expression (expressive). 「15. Masters who truly embody style」

When writing? We tend to worry when creating something new or coming up with ideas. Especially when speaking or writing. What is new? The golden ratio that people empathize with most is always a concern... Newness is adding 30% novelty to 70% universal content. 「17. Just add 30% more」

How am I really speaking? The easiest way is the recording function on your phone. Try recording right away and you’ll know. How about recording a conversation with someone you’re less close to and listening to it? You’ll realize your speech is surprisingly illogical. Instead of being step-by-step, the conclusion comes first, the pace is fast, important words are missing, and your speech is jumbled. If none of this applies and the other person understands you well, then you are a good speaker. Recording is a mirror that shows your style. 「20. Why masters record themselves」

Writing, There Is Style | Written by Kim Byung-yong | Gangga | 232 pages | 18,000 KRW