Behind the Pen
Episode Three Activity
In the final episode of Behind the Pen, Orson demonstrates how he uses wordplay to hook the listener and communicate powerful ideas.
Poetic Device
Wordplay: witty or clever manipulation of words with the intent to amuse
Example of wordplay in a song
“Real Gs Move in Silence Like Lasagna”—Little Wayne from “6 Foot, 7 Foot” (2011)
Practice Wordplay
- Write down your song topic across the top of the page.
- Make a list of words and phrases that are connected to the topic you chose.
- Pay attention to the syllables and sounds in each word and phrase.
- Identify syllables and pronunciations that sound like other words that you can play off.
- Craft a sentence that uses wordplay to convey the message of your topic.
- Put it all to music. See if you can recite the dialogue to music or with rhythm and melody.
Takeaways
- Write down one rose (something you enjoyed) and one thorn (something you didn’t like) for episode one.
- What else stood out to you?
Explore Other Parts of Behind the Pen
Behind the Pen | Episode One
Orson begins production of his new single, “Go Down,” and shares how the imagery of a flower growing from a seed inspired the song.
Behind the Pen | Episode Two
Orson explores how dialogue is used in his song and in the process of working with others.
Behind the Pen | Episode Three
Orson demonstrates how he uses wordplay to hook the listener and communicate powerful ideas.