The Pen is Righter than the Sword

Ever wonder why the words ‘right’ and ‘write’ sound exactly the same?

Well, there’s a reason for that.

Let’s look at the word ‘right.’ It stems from ‘reg’ — a Proto-Indo-European word that means “to move in a straight line; to lead or rule.”

Wait a minute — did you read that last part? To lead or rule.

To lead or rule…

Now, think about the word ‘write.’ What does it mean? What’s the purpose of writing?

Answer: to LEAD the reader.

Note how writing instruments are shaped like a cane. Kings and bishops carry a cane because they are rulers; they ‘write’ the rules. However, rulers are also measuring sticks. Measurements are used to regulate desired outcomes.

That’s the purpose. To lead them write to the point. Or whatever it is you’re conveying. You write so that they perceive your message as being right.

To write is to make right.

The little-known connection between AUTHOR and AUTHORITY

The etymology of authority comes from the Latin word ‘auctoritatem,’ which means “to invent.’ It stems from ‘auctor,’ which is Latin for “master, leader, or author.”

An author is a writer. A righter.

This correlation is likely why the word ‘authority’ is heavily used by those who seek to control and manage others (regardless of intention).

Think of it as AUTHOR-ity.

“Read my cap! I’m the AUTHOR-ity figure around here. I invent the rules. You follow them. I’m always write.”

It’s all word trickery. After all, words are spells. That’s why we spell them.

I really could go on for hours on this topic. Etymology is a great passion of mine. But that’s enough for write now. Rite?