A Writer’s Guide to Color

The language of color, here and there, then and now.

Writing vividly with color contributes significantly to crafting a rich, immersive narrative. By honing in on specific shades, writers can imbue their descriptions with layers of nuance and significance. Delving into this guide equips authors with a valuable resource—the color thesaurus—to assist in selecting the most fitting hues. This tool enables writers to captivate readers by incorporating historically precise colors and language, drawing inspiration from global superstitions, idioms, and symbolism. The guide encompasses a wide array of elements, including the exploration of symbolism, historical contexts, pigments, and expressions. With sections dedicated to places, animals, and plants, as well as phrases and idioms, authors can refine their color choices to evoke desired emotions and meanings within their narratives. Lastly, for a touch of amusement, the guide touches on how one's attire can reflect their current mood—a whimsical addition to this comprehensive resource.

Previously published as The Life and Time of Color.