But Latin has done more than just improve my skills as a
conversationalist—my perspective as a writer has changed as well. By
reading Vergil, I have learned how to convey beautiful and moving
imagery on a page. In studying the works of Cicero, I have learned not
only how to oust my enemies with rousing speeches, but also how to
engage and rivet my audience by using only my words. Through translating
Caesar...well, at least I have learned how to exaggerate my own
importance. Just kidding, Caesar!
In all earnestness, though, I am surprised by the dramatic changes
my writing and diction have undergone since I became a student of the
classics. I can feel my skills as a communicator improving, especially as
I began working on the Torch: U.S. and began contacting JCLers from all
corners of the country. It strikes me as incredibly ironic how Latin, a
language the disillusioned masses call “dead,” has been the means to
connect us all, a passionate group of high school students scattered
around the country (and even the world!). I find remarkable how words
like “Olympika” and “Certamen,” form a part of our common tongue,
with each word carrying its own unique connotation. Finally, I am
amazed how an ancient language with no more native speakers found a
home with us and lived on, continuing its legacy as a language of
communication. Have you noticed any changes in how you write or speak,
which may have originated from reading Latin? Maybe you use extra
metaphors, or longer sentences, or more tricolon than you used to
(polysyndeton, parallel structure, and tricolon right there!). If not,
you will — just keep with it!
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