What is Ambiguity?
unclear or multiple meanings
The Art of Playing with Words: Understanding Ambiguity in Creative Writing
Ambiguity refers to the use of language with more than one possible interpretation.
It can be intentionally or unintentionally created through word choice, sentence structure, or even punctuation.
As a creative writer, ambiguity can be a powerful tool to create tension and suspense, and it allows readers to engage with the text in a more active way by interpreting the meaning for themselves. However, it's important to be aware of when and how you're using ambiguity so that it doesn't create confusion or hinder the clarity of your message.
Here are two examples of how ambiguity can add depth, meaning, and interest to literature.
The famous line, 'Do I dare disturb the universe?' is an example of ambiguity, as it leaves the reader unsure if the speaker is being sincere or ironic.
The novel is full of ambiguous moments, such as when Holden says he's 'crazy' but then admits, 'That doesn’t mean I’m crazy.' This creates uncertainty about his mental state and what reality truly is.