[General] Descriptive words to describe a 'relentless/reckless' attack

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HanibalII

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Hey guys,

I'm working on some writing in my spare time. I was wondering if anybody could tell me whether this sounds redundant, or whether it could be more descriptive?


And with the blinding light, came the sudden, merciless sound of his shrieking horn. Just as I thought this driver’s intimidation couldn’t get any worse, I felt a sudden lurch, and then a swaying as he began to recklessly and ruthlessly ram my car.

Possible change to make it 'flow' a little better. (In my opinion)

And with the blinding light, came the sudden, merciless sound of his shrieking horn. Just as I thought the driver’s intimidation couldn’t get any worse, I felt a sudden lurch, and then a swaying as he began recklessly and ruthlessly ramming my car.


Would you agree that intimidation is the right word for this scenario?

I'm slightly concerned that 'recklessly' and 'ruthlessly' have a close enough definition to be redundant.

Do those words go hand in hand?

Do you need to be ruthless to be reckless? or vice versa?

Also, do writers feel that using cliches is over the top for story writing? I mean, in some cases, a cliche fits better than anything else.




I'd appreciate any help.


Cheers
 
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Tdol

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Do those words go hand in hand?
It's not a strong collocation, but they could work together

Do you need to be ruthless to be reckless? or vice versa?
No and no
 

HanibalII

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It's not a strong collocation, but they could work together


No and no


Do you think the structure of the sentence could be changed?

I'm trying to make it as descriptive as possible without ruining the flow (pace) of the story.
 

Barb_D

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If he "began ramming your car" it says he did it over and over again. I'm sure you'd feel more than a lurch and swaying.
 

HanibalII

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If he "began ramming your car" it says he did it over and over again. I'm sure you'd feel more than a lurch and swaying.


I see your point. I'll have to re-think that section.
 
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