Language Matters

The Washington Post Style Invitational contest asks readers to submit "instructions" for something (anything), but written in the style of a famous person. The winning entry was The Hokey Pokey, written in the style of William Shakespeare by Jeff Brechlin. Looking for a fun writing exercise? See what you can do with the contest format. As seen below, the  results can be very funny:

O proud left foot, that ventures quick within
Then soon upon a backward journey lithe.
Anon, once more the gesture, then begin:
Command sinistral pedestal to writhe.
Commence thou then the fervid Hokey-Poke,
A mad gyration, hips in wanton swirl.
To spin! A wilde release from Heavens yoke.
Blessed dervish! Surely canst go, girl.
The Hoke, the poke -- banish now thy doubt
Verily, I say, 'tis what it's all about.