How to write well (Time For A Journey )
Take your readers on a journey. Tell and Truth.
There’s joy in reading good writing. There is no doubt in that
A sense of connection with the author. The world opening up.
But there’s more than that …
As a writer, you notice the writing techniques used and you can try them out in your own writing. You sharpen your sense of what good writing is, and you absorb some of that goodness, even without realizing it.
That’s how you find and strengthen your writing voice, so you can share your ideas with gusto and connect with your readers more strongly.
It still feels like magic to me
To take your readers on a long trip they forget the destination and are completely invested in your story.
So, if you want to learn from the best, read good writing. You’ll absorb the styles, techniques, and rhythm of good writers.
Even when you don’t realize it, your writing will become better. You’ll nurture a stronger voice. Your writing will become a pleasure to read.
Here are some ways to write well by taking your readers on a journey:
- The power of short
The purpose of an opening sentence is to get readers to read the next sentence. It has to draw readers into the story, making them curious to read on.
It’s easier to draw readers in with a short sentence because it takes less effort to read. Before readers know it, they’re already reading the next sentence.
An opening sentence also sets the tone, and keeping it short and factual gives readers a sense of truthfulness.
- The pleasure of long
One of the things I most admire good writers for is how they can paint pictures in just one sentence.
Here’s an example
A description of the weather (soft misty rain), timing (on her third morning), what’s happening where (her father drives her home, slowly) and then the expression of love and tenderness (swaddled tight against her mother’s chest, her mother kissing her cheek over and over).
Can you picture the scene?
Vivid imagery draws readers into a story. They feel like they’re there, witnessing the scenes. Better than a movie.
As a reader, the description above warms me. I can’t help but smile—even though there’s a sense of foreboding. Will the loveliness last?
- The rhythm of long vs short sentences
I love a beautiful long sentence, but I love a powerful short sentence, too.
And the greatest pleasure is in the mix of long and short.
“Long sentences take readers on a journey. Short ones tell the gospel truth.”
There’s music in writing, and learning to write well is like learning to make music.
Read your heroes. Absorb their rhythm. Then emulate it.
Still, the same principles of good writing apply: Be concise. Be precise. Be vivid. Write with rhythm.
Happy writing!
Thanks for Reading
