As we count down the last week before the 20th Anniversary conference of the Plain Language Association International (PLAIN), and in honour of International Plain Language Day October 13, here is a song I’ve adapted for the occasion.
It celebrates the benefits of plain language in helping us more clearly see, hear, read and understand the information around us.
Feel free to hum or sing along as you go …I bet you remember the tune!
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I Can Read Clearly Now (sung to the tune of Johnny Nash’s I Can See Clearly Now)
Original Copyright: Epic Records and Johnny Nash, (c) 1972 **
Adaptation © Michelle Black, October 2013
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[Verse One]
I can read clearly now
The fog is gone
I can see all it means
and what to do.
Gone are the loaded words
That had me lost.
It’s gonna be a much, much easier day.
[Verse two]
I think I can make it now,
The noise is gone.
Passive voice and noun stacks have disappeared.
Here is that message I’ve been looking for.
Wow, this is a much, much easier way.
[Bridge]
Read it out loud, it sounds like they’re talking.
You understand – and know where you’re walking ….
[Verse three to end]
I can hear clearly now.
It all makes sense.
I can make sound decisions and act on them.
I’ve got a clearer path in front of me.
Plain language has helped, helped me make my way.
[Last line:] Plain language can help, help you make your way.
– Ends
** See more on the Wikipedia page for background on the original song and artist.
2 comments
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October 14, 2013 at 5:48 am
Ros Byrne
Wow – fabulous! I hope some wonderful performer picks this up and gives it the exposure it needs.
November 15, 2013 at 1:43 pm
Black Crane
Hi Roz, and thanks so much for the kudo (even with my delayed reply).
The song has been picking up wind among a few plain-language supporters, so you’ll likely hear more soon about where people can hear it put to music. Keep checking back, or check me on Twitter etc. as we will be sharing it widely.