Like everyone else, I know to avoid cliches at all costs, But If a cliche has not been used for God knows how long- is it still a cliche? Just wondering what your thoughts might be on this.
When does a cliche stop being a cliche?
- Thread starter sheadakota
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A cliche stops being a cliche when it's not a default--meaning, when the author considered what needed to be there and the "cliche" is honestly what works--and then makes it work in the scope of that scene and that story.
NOTE: Don't avoid at all costs. Everything has its place. Don't overuse. Don't depend upon. But to avoid at all costs...nope.
cliches, in my opinion, only work really well if expanded into a metaphor.
There are some fantastic pieces of poetry and fiction that play on a cliche to the fullest and do it very effectively.
I also agree with Kevin's opinion on this.
There are some fantastic pieces of poetry and fiction that play on a cliche to the fullest and do it very effectively.
I also agree with Kevin's opinion on this.
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A cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche is a cliche - it's as plain as the nose on your face.
It's = it is
Its = belongs to It
It's = it is
Its = belongs to It
Cliches can be useful in dialogue, to reveal character. In non-dialogue, they can be humorous or breezy, but usually best avoided when you're being serious. Avoid like - well, like the plague if you're describing grief or outrage. OTOH, if your cliches are surrounded by good writing, they're okay anywhere - in small measure.
Avoid like a tax audit? Nah. Like a cesspool? Yuck. Lke a dental appointment? *shudder*
Avoid like a tax audit? Nah. Like a cesspool? Yuck. Lke a dental appointment? *shudder*
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