• Written Beautifully: This phrase focuses on the quality of the writing itself. It suggests that the writing is beautiful without necessarily comparing it to other works or emphasizing the degree of beauty.
  • So Beautifully Written: In contrast, "So Beautifully Written" adds emphasis to the beauty of the writing. It indicates that the work is exceptionally well-written and implies a comparative aspect, as if comparing it to other pieces of writing.

Toni Morrison is lauded by critics as an author whose books are considered beautifully written. So much so that a letter of protest was signed by 48 writers, accusing the publishing industry of an oversight when Morrison's novel "The Bluest Eye" was not shortlisted for the National Book Award.

Here is an example of her writing from the book, "The Bluest Eye"

“Love is never any better than the lover. Wicked people love wickedly, violent people love violently, weak people love weakly, stupid people love stupidly, but the love of a free man is never safe. There is no gift for the beloved. The lover alone possesses his gift of love. The loved one is shorn, neutralized, frozen in the glare of the lover’s inward eye.”

With this beautifully written quote in mind, let's go into detail of what the phrases "written beautifully" or "so beautifully written" mean.

When should we use Written Beautifully and So Beautifully Written?

Written Beautifully

Use this phrase when you want to acknowledge the quality of the writing without necessarily making a comparative statement. It's a general compliment.

Example sentences

"Expect beautifully written angst" - Independent.
"It's also beautifully written." - The Guardian.
"Also, it was beautifully written." - The New York Times.

More example sentences

  1. The poem, written beautifully, captured the essence of love in every carefully chosen word.
  2. The handwritten letter, written beautifully in cursive script, conveyed a depth of emotion that words alone couldn't express.
  3. The novel's prose was written beautifully, painting vivid images in the reader's mind with its lyrical descriptions.
  4. The calligraphy on the wedding invitation was done so beautifully that it felt like a work of art.
  5. Her diary was a treasure trove of thoughts and musings, each entry written beautifully and filled with introspection.
  6. The historical document, written beautifully in elegant calligraphy, transported readers back in time.
  7. The message of hope in the mural was written beautifully with vibrant colors and striking imagery.
  8. The love song's lyrics were written beautifully, touching the hearts of all who heard them.
  9. The inscription on the gravestone was written beautifully, honoring the memory of a beloved soul.
  10. The chef's cookbook was a masterpiece, with each recipe written beautifully and accompanied by mouthwatering photos.

So Beautifully Written

Opt for this when you want to emphasize the exceptional quality of the writing, comparing it to other works or highlighting a degree of beauty.

Example sentences

  1. The heartfelt letter was so beautifully written, it brought tears to my eyes.
  2. The intricate calligraphy on the wedding invitations was so beautifully written that it left guests in awe.
  3. The classic novel is so beautifully written that it continues to captivate readers across generations.
  4. The poem's verses were so beautifully written that they resonated with the deepest emotions of the audience.
  5. The children's book was so beautifully written that it became an instant bedtime favorite.
  6. The historian's research paper was so beautifully written that it shed new light on a centuries-old mystery.
  7. The travel journal was so beautifully written, it felt as if you were exploring the world alongside the author.
  8. The restaurant's menu was so beautifully written that it made choosing a dish a delightful experience.
  9. The love letter was so beautifully written that it rekindled the romance in their relationship.
  10. The biography was so beautifully written that it offered a profound glimpse into the subject's life and character.
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Tricks to Remember the Difference: To remember the difference, think of "So Beautifully Written" as adding an extra layer of emphasis and comparison. If you simply want to compliment the quality of the writing without making a comparative statement, use "Written Beautifully."

Synonyms

  • Elegantly Written: An alternative to "Written Beautifully," suggesting a high level of grace and sophistication in the writing.

The novel was elegantly written, with prose so refined that it transported readers to a world of timeless beauty and sophistication.

  • Exquisitely Crafted: A synonym for "So Beautifully Written," emphasizing the exceptional craftsmanship in the writing.

The exquisitely crafted jewelry piece, adorned with intricate details and rare gemstones, was a testament to the artisan's exceptional skill and creativity.

Common Idioms:

  1. A Work of Art: Often used to describe exceptionally well-written literature.
  2. The Pen Is Mightier Than the Sword: An idiom highlighting the power of written words to influence and inspire.

Practice Questions

Choose the correct phrase, "so beautifully written" or "written beautifully," to complete the sentence:

  1. The play was so beautifully written/written beautifully that it received a standing ovation from the audience.
  2. Her speech was so beautifully written/written, conveying her passion for the cause and inspiring everyone in the room.
  3. The essay was so beautifully written/written, with a compelling argument that swayed even the most skeptical readers.
  4. This song is so beautifully written/written that it has become an instant hit, resonating with people of all ages.
  5. The memoir was so beautifully written/written, sharing the author's life experiences with profound insight and honesty.
  6. The mystery novel is so beautifully written/written that it keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
  7. The artwork is so beautifully written/written, showcasing the artist's exceptional talent and attention to detail.
  8. The research paper is so beautifully written/written, presenting complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
  9. The letter of recommendation was so beautifully written/written, highlighting the candidate's strengths and achievements.
  10. The magazine article is so beautifully written/written that it sheds light on a critical social issue in a poignant and thought-provoking way.

Answer Key

  1. so beautifully written
  2. so beautifully written
  3. written beautifully
  4. so beautifully written
  5. written beautifully
  6. so beautifully written
  7. written beautifully
  8. written beautifully
  9. written beautifully
  10. so beautifully written

Summary:

In summary, "Written Beautifully" and "So Beautifully Written" both praise the quality of written work, but they differ in the level of emphasis and context. Use "Written Beautifully" for a general compliment, and use "So Beautifully Written" when you want to emphasize the exceptional quality of the writing, often in a comparative context. Understanding this distinction will help you communicate your appreciation for literature and written work more effectively.

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References:

Toni Morrison Statistics – WordsRated
WordsRatedDanny McLoughlin
40 Important “The Bluest Eye” Quotes by Toni Morrison
Get the most important The Bluest Eye quotes by Toni Morrison here. They will make you think and analyze the most powerful words in the book.
The Literary LifestyleJulianne Buonocore
So beautifully written or Written beautifully?
So beautifully written or Written beautifully? - Which English form is more popular?
TextRanch– Selena - Featured comment.