What do you think about the use of sophisticated language in books?

A lot of writers like to show their extensive vocabulary by using rare words and/or or unusual phrasing in their books.

What do you think of this practice? :hmmmm:

Do you enjoy seeing this practice or do you prefer books that stick to more widely known vocabulary and phrasing? Do you think it adds value to the book or that it cheapens it? Do you believe it is a nice touch that makes the writing style more beautiful or that it seems too pretentious and try-hard? Where do you draw the line between acceptable and unacceptable levels of difficult words and odd phrases?

Share your thoughts on the use of uncommon words and phrasing in books here! :awesome:

(edited 5 years ago)

Reply 1

esralled

The author should never be there as anything but a narrator. If the language doesn't suit the scene or the character, it's out of place.

Hyperbolic language has its place in Game of Thrones, but not in The Hobbit.