- Published on
(A proofreader's note regarding “amiable” and “amicable”)
When Amy and Abel join hands at their table,
Then “amiable” may be perceived.
The soft-landing sounds of the “ami” and “able”
With feelings of love are received;
For “amiable” stands on its Latin origin
Of “lover” or “personal friend.”
Its meanings as “friendly” and “generally agreeable”
Do mainly to persons attend.
Exceptions, though rare, are both fair and accepted
Since traits of personality and more
Described yet as “having a quality that pleases”
Are “amiable” things to the core.
Though similar in origin, our “amicable” is different
With “friendly goodwill” at its heart.
The “c” in the center reminds one of “contracts,”
Where “amicable” long had its start.
Describing agreements, relations, and attitudes,
It caters to things but not people;
Expressing “characterized by a friendly goodwill,”
With an emphasis clearly on “peaceable.”
“They worked laying cable, both Hammy and Abel,
And amicable were their disputes.
They ended their toiling with amiable smiling,
Still glad to be not wearing suits.”