Definition as Mode of Development

By: Sean Savoie 

            It sure was an inspirational 4^th of July weekend! From 4PM till 2AM the tiny firecrackers popped, bottle rockets fired within only a ten second span for six hours, m-80s went off every 20 odd minutes; cars of all sorts paraded the streets after Italy upset Germany in the World Cup. Chaos and focus aroused by a soccer game illustrate a powerful, primal point. Is independence simply recognition or distinction? This is the central point of definition. As is evident in both the World Cup and Independence Day fireworks, definition, as mode of expression, pinpoints the difference between one meaning and its mistaken other(s). Though the most naturally communicated mode of development, definition defies definition. A true New Yorker will and often does say, “It is what it is!”

`           Nevertheless, students who realize there is a method to my madness should imagine an essay that consists of nothing more than a clear definition. Definitions are of two types; connotation and denotation. Denotation is a dictionary definition. Connotation is the feeling, mood, or tone of a word, such as in the expression, “He is a pig.” In America it means without manners; whereas in Asia it more often means stupid. It is possible to define something by explaining what it is not, as well. For this reason, definition often incorporates comparison and contrast as a means of illustrating examples. 

            Consider the following questions as controlling ideas to express a definition:

1. What is an American?
2. What is love?
3. Who are you, really?
4. What is democracy?
5. What is a memory?

Statements with which to agree or disagree:

1. Define a monarchy.
2. Define human.
3. (a Clinton fan favorite) Define sex.
4. Define happiness.
5. Define honesty.

The beauty of definition as an essay is that it comes so naturally because most of us do it every day. But when writing a short essay to express what it means to be human, the writer must focus tightly on the scope of the issue. Taking a subject as infinite as the human experience and expressing it in any way seems impossible, yet a writer can certainly capture an aspect of being human that is poignant, beautifully expressed, or even transcendent.

The truly masterful writers, of whom I certainly do not include myself, excel at definition and expand upon lists and lists of examples in fiction as well as academic writing. A recent favorite of mine, Don DeLillo, defines ideas through the mind of his protagonist using metaphor, simile, allegory, and lists items and thought to pound the vivid concept into the mind of the reader. Too bad most people do not read these days. But you probably do if you are reading this….. especially to this point.

While reading the following example essay, consider whether it defines something that you agree or disagree with. Attempt to counter the idea with a definition of your own. Try to limit your essay to 150 words. 

Example essay:

Humanity is more defined by what it does than what it is per se. Forrest Gump, quoting his mom, said with utter confidence, “Stupid is as stupid does.” True. And yes, we are, as a human race, seemingly conscious of our own awareness, making history a potentially necessary tool for self-understanding and misunderstanding. But in the end, the most fascinating aspect of being human springs from the potential we have for understanding and having the freedom and compulsion to recognize and do good and/or evil. Another way to say this is to say that a human is a human’s own potential. Whether one chooses good or evil is irrelevant in this regard; a person seen from the perspective of his or her humanity is merely potential. This understanding alone significantly aids us in defining ourselves. I am what I can be.

End.

Does the above essay address the topic? Does it narrow the scope of the topic enough to make it feel complete as an essay in itself? Is the thesis stated in the passage? Would the essay provoke thought in a person who may consider the topic?  

Consider the most elusive definition of all time, the sublime question that has tormented writers of all styles and persuasions, countries and religions, ages and periods……Love!  Yep! Love. What is love? Go ahead students. 150 words maximum. One sentence minimum. My own personal favorite is: “When the happiness of another person is essential to your own.” But that is about as romantic as I get. See who can name the philosopher who gave love such a definition.