Since blowing off those vocabulary tests in high school that, yes, would follow me in real life, I have this recurring fear that’s, as fears go, totally irrational because underneath every fear is a little paranoia. I have this vision where I’ve made it big and I’m being interviewed by someone who uses a word that stumps me. It’s like a one-on-one format and there’s no way out. I can’t answer the question or I reply in such a way that shows my ignorance. I’ve seen it happen to famous people and RHOA’s Porsha Williams if that’s not overreaching the limits of stardom. After her Underground Railroad confession, she’s not exactly the litmus test for adult intelligence.
Even worse than not knowing the meaning of a word is mispronouncing one, which is a tell-tale sign that it’s not a word someone uses often. If you’re one of the few people left who watch American Idol then you might’ve heard J.Lo’s mispronunciation of the word integral at the end of the show. Proper and well-spoken Harry even looked like he did a double take at her blunder. In fairness, J-Lo isn’t exactly known for her spoken word or singing for that matter. More like skimpy style and dance moves. And her new hit, "I Luh Ya Papi” reiterates my point.
When I sent out the first few pages of my manuscript, I nearly hyperventilated when I realized I’d overlooked a misspelling. One that Microsoft Word didn’t catch either. I’d spelled forgivable with an “e.” Look, I’m not the only one.