August, being the eighth month of the Gregorian calendar year, settled between July and September, is pronounced ˈɑː.ɡəst | ˈȯ-gəst and capitalized when spelled. Conversely, august, pronounced ɑːˈɡʌst | ȯ-ˈgəst, is an adjective conveying great importance and respect.
Heteronyms such as this - words that are spelled the same, but pronounced differently - can be a fun way to infuriate readers and editors. I might write of the august August during which a renowned leader was born, or worry a soldier might desert to the desert. (He might eat dessert while there, but that's a different matter.)
If you're finding your writing has become an unwelcome routine, it's okay to liven up the chore with little challenges for yourself. Play with words you wouldn't normally use, try an overabundance of alliteration, throw homonyms and heteronyms in close proximity. A change in tone might be the enlightenment you need to reorient into productive storytelling.
Happy Writing!
Holidays (offbeat, writing, and otherwise) to embrace this month:
August 08 - The Date to Create Day
August 09 - Book Lovers Day
August 14 - World Calligraphy Day
August 17 - Meaning of 'is' Day
August 18 - Bad Poetry Day
August 21 - Poet's Day
August 27 - World Rock, Paper, Scissors Day
August 28 - Read Comics in Public Day
Writer's block? Try this month's prompt!
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