Subtitle Madness

To Pentameter, or Not? That is the question...

We’re settling into our new home in Oregon and putting final touches on my new book. It’s a collection of essays on subjects ranging from getting the best healthcare to exploring creativity in our next act. I’d normally cite the title of the book, but the question I have for you is about the title.

The subtitle, to be exact.

The book will be called Rock On, with the working subtitle Power, Sex and Money after Sixty. Without realizing it, I set up that subtitle as a trochaic pentameter—a ten syllable line consisting of five pairs of syllables, with emphasis on the first syllable in each pair. Nice rhythm. My publisher asked why I didn’t alphabetize the terms—great question! That would give us Money, Power and Sex after Sixty. Still ten syllables, but a different emphasis (and no pentameter).

My publisher’s question got me thinking about all the possible subtitle combos. I’d love to know your favorite. Here’s a poll:

And one last combo: Power, Money, & Sex after Sixty, which is one more choice than the poll setup allows. Feel free to add a comment if that one is your fave.

So… What do you think?

I look forward to your votes (and your thoughts, in comments)!

Cheers,

Stella

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Look for the launch of Rock On, the soon-to-be subtitled essay collection, on August 14. And before that, look for a fantastic new cover from designer Diana Rosinus!

Let’s age playfully—and powerfully.

P.S. Thrilled with this advance review from my shero Joan Price, author of Naked at Our Age!