The Writing Challenge
“Easy reading is damn hard writing.” Nathaniel Hawthorne
I posed the following question: “What is the key to good writing – in 1 word?” to fellow writers. After some grumbling about the request (“Only one word?”), they came up with some great suggestions. See if you agree.
- Structure
- Rhythm
- Ear
- Editing
- Re-writing
- Simplicity
- Economy
- Conviction
- Connect
- Compelling/Engaging
- Conviction
- Pencil
Except for “pencil,” the answers seemed to fall into one of two categories: Mechanics or Audience. The “how” and the “who.” Of course, good writing encompasses both: we have to write well to an audience we know well.
Mechanics
Structure is the logical arrangement of your ideas and thoughts. (See my accompanying blog) Create your structure first; then start writing. A solid structure will ensure you’re delivering a coherent message to your audience.
Rhythm and Ear are “kissing cousins” – you need rhythm so that your sentences (and phrases) have punch, interest and variety. Your Ear will tell you if they do.
Editing forces you to cut excess words, sharpen your word choices, adjust your tone, ensure you’re writing with a consistent voice, etc.
Writing is re-writing. Until you hit “Send” or “Print,” no words are carved in stone (or on the screen.) We write. We revise. We tweak. We tweak some more. That’s the writer’s life.
Simplicity and economy. Don’t clutter the message. Respect your audience’s time and intelligence. Don’t take three lines to say what can be said in one. Keep it simple – and get to the point!
Conviction. Believe in what you write. Whatever your goal – to inform, educate, persuade, train or motivate – communicate it clearly. Don’t leave readers confused about your intended message.
Audience
Your writing needs to connect with your audience. The only way to do this is to know who you want to reach and write directly to them. Discover your audience’s likes and dislikes. Their passions and their peeves. Write as if you’re one of them.
Certainly, your copy should be compelling and engaging. If it isn’t, Ms. Reader’s going to walk off your page and onto someone else’s. Use strong, visual words. Vary your sentence structure. Avoid passive voice. Tell a story.
Finally, have a pencil handy. If every modern communication device you use crashes, you could still turn to the simple graphite pencil to write down your message.
Do you have a response to the question, “What is the key to good writing in 1 word?” Send it in and we’ll share it!
Special thanks to these fellow writers for their contributions:
Terry H., Michael E., Bill K., Susan C., Modesty G., Renee A., Dani C., Josh H., Tom D., Charlie R., Paula B., and Jason B.