eclectic

\ih-KLEK-tik\

adjective

1 : selecting what appears to be best in various doctrines, methods, or styles
2 : composed of elements drawn from various sources; also : heterogeneous

eclectic is as a word that has two meanings to me, depending on how i say it. the first meaning is more like definition one, often pronounced with a tone of conviction:

his musical taste is ECLECTIC.

this translates to: he knows so much about music, he has been able to gain an appreciation for things i would never even listen to.

the other meaning follows a hesitation, a pause, a vocal ellipses of some sort:

his musical taste is...ECLECTIC.

this is more like definition two, but with even greater implication: he knows so little about music that he has spread himself way too thin and will listen to anything without discrimination.

negative space is vital to language. to anything, really. the meaning carried in that pause does so much more work than a modifier. although, the use of the ellipses in writing seems to be looked down upon. it has been described as "devicey" by more than one of my professors, as if really talented writers would actually find a more appropriate adjective that would indisputably convey that second meaning. admittedly, it's difficult for me to separate what i write from what i would say. i feel like if it's what would come out of my mouth, than it belongs on the paper. sincere.

i haven't decided yet if i can buy into their theory. to an extent...i suppose.