What Are Aphorisms in Writing?

Aphorisms are short and zippy lines that function like pearls of wisdom. You are probably already well acquainted with some without even knowing it. A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. 

Aphorisms are catchy, but they also serve a purpose in our writing. Let’s take a closer look.

What is the Purpose of an Aphorism?

They are short and sweet, which makes them easy to remember. When your writing is easy to remember, you leave a lasting impression on your audience.

As I write this, I am thinking of the last three lines of a poem I read yesterday that just stuck with me because they were so succinct and memorable. There’s beauty in simplicity and economy of words, sometimes. While we can wax poetic on some topics, there’s nothing wrong with choosing not to turn every essay into War and Peace, ya know.

When & Where to Use Aphorisms in Writing

In Dialogue

Aphorisms can be used in dialogue between characters to help reveal each person’s mindset and personality. Not all aphorisms cut the same; some are cheerful and others lean toward the dark end of the spectrum. A character who is normally chipper suddenly spewing nothing but gloomy one liners, is going to cause the reader to pay attention and wonder what is changing within them. For more pointers on how to make sure your dialogue is on point, check out our previous post on “Dialogue Do’s & Don’ts.”

In Titles

You can use an aphorism in a title to set the mood or subvert expectations for the reader. Starting off a section or chapter title with something like “a bird in the hand” only to launch into a portrayal of premeditated crimes committed by an antagonist with a bird tattoo on their fingers, can hook your readers and keep them turning pages.

Famous Aphorism Examples

• Actions speak louder than words.

• Give him an inch and he’ll take a mile.

• All for one and one for all.

• If you lie down with dogs, you wake up with fleas.

• All that glitters isn’t gold.

• A penny saved is a penny earned.

• Don’t judge a book by its cover.

• All things come to those who wait.

• He who pays the piper pays the tune.

And Then There Were None

Regardless of where you pepper aphorisms throughout your story or whether they resonate with you at all, we would love to read your most recent work. Submit it to Ink & Oak today for a chance to be published in our next edition!