When talking about the distinction between extroversion and introversion, I make the point that this is not a distinction in sociability or friendliness, but of where one derives one's energy.
Extroverts get energy from the external world, activity, and interaction with other people. Introverts get energy from their internal world, reflection, and interaction with those who are close to them.
Long before Twilight I described this difference as follows: "Extroverts are energy vampires looking to suck the life out of others, while introverts feel like they are having the life sucked out of them." In addition to generating laughter this image sticks with audience members as they think about their interactions with colleagues, clients, and family members.
Well-crafted verbal images are central to durable messages. That's one reason I've moved from Myers-Briggs Type Indicator as my personality assessment of preference to Everything DiSC. The circular model of DiSC and the use of four letters rather than sixteen combinations of letters creates a lasting impression that allows the learning to stick.
Here are THREE principles related to the creation of effective word images.
Principle #1: The image must be relevant to your audience
I heard about a pastor from upstate NY who was speaking to a New York City audience. His sermon was filled with agricultural examples that didn't resonate with his hearers. We need to make the effort to speak the language of our audience members rather than expecting them to adapt to ours.
Principle #2: The image must not distract from your intended meaning
Recently a client spoke about "vomiting" in reference to her use of many words. That is a powerful, memorable image, but one that is likely to distract the listener from her intended meaning.
Principle #3: The image must be memorable
One of my healthcare clients was distinguishing between a longstanding, non-crisis situation and a short-lived, crisis situation. He said the department is suffering from diabetes not appendicitis. Given the healthcare context, the age of the audience, and the point he was trying to make, this was a well-crafted, memorable image.