The graphic language of the abilities and desires has a lot of repeating patterns. These patterns have precise, consistent meanings. If we simply explained the meanings of the elements of the graphic language, we wouldn't need nearly as many card rule explanations. We'd also be able to do things with a clever graphic language that we might not be able to do easily with english!
Skyler also wanted an explanation of the names of the land. I think they're self-explanatory if you sit with them for a bit, but it's just going to be easier to get it if you see them listed all in one place with their names.