What is a Vignette.

by Gordon Bailey
28th June 2013

Hi there this is one for all my fellow writers can you please explain to me what is a Vignette, and how, when, and where would you use it. I am under the belief that it is a form of Flash fiction, am I right or am I way off.

For some reason It was mentioned in an article I was reading and I meant to look it up on google, but I far prefer the views of my fellow writing friends.

So can you help me with this one.

Replies

Hi I'm sorry but I'm now very confused I don't know If I'm talking about a writing phrase or some kind of Roman Cooking technique. I am totally lost and confused.

This is one of those questions I wished I'd never asked, I sorry to have put the people to so much trouble who have tried to answer my original question but I am still unsure what a Vignette is and I don't think I really care any more. ( Talk about as clear as Fog)

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Gordon
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Gordon Bailey
29/06/2013

A: Originally, a design of vine-leaves & tendrils - according to Chambers Dictionary 1991

The full definition is worth reading but A Fox's answer above, ref to vinaigrette is on the correct lines - so truly, "The answer does lie in the soil," from whence grow vines et al.

But for writers & people who write (there is a difference, & I'm living proof) A vignette usually refers to "A character sketch." pictorial, or written as a head or tailpiece." The vine element refers to there being no distinct border but perhaps a shading off or loose framing with vine tendrils.

My Dictionary is the most often opened book in my house. - Must look up 'Anorak'.

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Arthur
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Arthur Cummins
29/06/2013

Um...Flash yes. But my interpretation/observation is that it is not only the length that defines it but rather the focus. As in although a scene may be set, or a camera pan, their is a a tight focus/placement of symbolism/saturation of emotions that lends itself to a a particular motif/statement.

A scene a salad, a vinaigrette/vignette the sharpness that lends flavour/focus. (Bahahahaha)

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A Fox
29/06/2013