🚀 go-pugleaf

Since this group deals with writing, why not look at the verb
"to be" as it actually affects the quality of prose?

Ever since I read about English Prime (in Harpers, about a year
ago),  I've made it a policy to question every use of "to be" in
my own writing.  Sometimes I let the verb stand; but often, I
realize that using "to be" makes my prose flaccid.  Writing
thrives on more active verbs.  Using "to be" often waters down
the effect of what you say.

I've found I have a natural tendency to write descriptions along
the lines of "There was a cat on the table," when I could have
written "A cat sprawled on the table."  Of course, you need to
have a sense of perspective and avoid purple prose; but most of
the time, the danger lies in bland verbs, not florid ones.
Avoiding the verb "to be" has the added bonus of avoiding the
passive voice and all the fuzzy thinking associated with it.

I would heartily recommend that every writer try the exercise of
writing a few paragraphs without "to be".  Doing it without
producing stilted prose can tie your brain into knots, but the
effort rewards you with a greater appreciation of how words go
together, not to mention a tremendous sense of accomplishment.
If it carries over into your real writing and helps brighten
up your usual prose style, so much the better.

		Jim Gardner, Thinkage Ltd.