The STYLE WORKSHOP

The idea behind the Style Workshop is a simple one: You write something, then you re-write it to make it better. If any of you out there are against re-writing your manuscripts, may I suggest a career in horticulture? You will re-write. You'll do it on your own. You'll be commanded to by an editor. Even the manuscript itself wil tell you it needs polished prose and clearer imagery. The key to Style is finding the story you want to tell and telling the hell out of it until you tell it right.

The Style Workshop has two text areas -- one for the first version, and another for the second version you will write. Take a good look at the first version. Does it sound distant? Is it really what you want to say? Are you being a bit to eloquent, or not enough, for the novel? Are you using the right words or the perfect ones? Analyze the prose as though you are a reader -- does it make you feel something? Does it communicate your message? Imagine that you don't know what's going on. You're a reader reading this passage for the very first time. Is it good enough to make you keep reading?

Finally, is it your voice, or someone else's voice? Is this your Style?

Like I said, it's not easy defining your Style. It's not even easy defining Style Itself! So what if it takes you awhile. Trust me, you're in good company on that score. The most important ingredient is TRUTH. Be true to your story and to your message, and speak from the heart. There you will find your unique voice.

 

Introduction

Style Lexicon

Style Workshop

Articles

 

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