As difficult as to be good

March 11, 2019March 9, 2019 Zoetic WordsLeave a comment

Many writers struggle against perfectionism. In previous posts we discussed omitting extra words, editing for clarity. Simple clarity is not in the least easy to achieve. It never has been. As far back as 1837 writer and poet Thomas Hood quoted “the easiest reading is damned hard writing”.

We know that no human is perfect. Neither can anybody be ‘good’ all the time. Yet we often make the mistake of expecting perfection in our writing. The number of articles devoted to defeating perfectionist tendencies toward gives us a clue as to the extent of the struggle. All anyone can do is their best and to strive to improve. At some time we have to say enough and submit.

Data with a Soul

March 4, 2019February 24, 2019 Zoetic WordsLeave a comment

Well crafted stories draw in the reader. The best stories don’t let go until they are done. As a reader, you most likely remember a story you wanted to dive deep and stay there through the night and into the next day until you finished. Then, the moment you got to “the end”, you wished you had not read so fast.

It always amazes me when the 26 letters of the English alphabet combine to communicate not just data and ideas but complete, compelling stories which move the heart, the emotions, and speak soul to soul.

Words will flow

March 1, 2019February 24, 2019 Zoetic WordsLeave a comment

As writers, we need to read in order to fill up the well of creativity.

Reading good books broadens and expands one’s mind, vocabulary, and horizons. It exposes one to new writing styles, voices, ideas, and viewpoints. It gives one the opportunity to learn about writing by studying how our betters use words, structure sentences, stories, and arguments.

We can learn from pretty much anyone and anything. Learning what not to do almost as important as learning what to do. So, please excuse me while I get back to my book…

Words and the senses

February 25, 2019February 11, 2019 Zoetic WordsLeave a comment

As wonderful as words are, we have to admit they have limits. However, they can be especially powerful when used in combination with the senses.

How much more effective is a whispered “I love you,” when punctuated by kisses. How well an “I’m sorry for your loss,” goes with a touch of the hand; “Do you remember…” goes with a specific scent or melody from the past.

When editing your story, check to see that you have deepened point of view by including, amongst your dialogue, all the senses.

How much should I edit?

February 22, 2019February 11, 2019 Zoetic WordsLeave a comment

“Editing is like gardening, prune the branches, then the leaves.” I don’t remember who said it but it’s good advice. Think topiary.

Prune out the boring bits, the curly bits that go nowhere, the lovely words which don’t relate to the plot but sound wonderful. Copy and paste them into another file and find somewhere else to use them.

Ensure repetition is a rhetorical device for emphasis rather than redundancy.

Prune away the fluff and fuzz, anything which stands between the reader and your story.