Writing Style
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I was told once that I was a simple writer. He also said that I did not possess natural writing talent, and of course, those words stung me quite hard. But, I did not cease writing because you see, I’m not a quitter.
However, after I was told this by someone I trusted as a mentor, I began evaluating my writing, and what I found was interesting. He was right in a way. I am a simple writer in the fact that I don’t continuously use complicated, lengthy words in my writing style. I believe that writing style changes with each book project. For example, I would not write in the same style with a YA story as I would with a Romance or a Horror project. They are different genres and meant for a different audience.
Regarding my basic writing style, this is how I approach my writing. I write to entertain, not to impress the reader with my impressive knowledge of the dictionary. Yes, if my story calls for usage of a complicated, large word then by all means, I use it. But, for the most part, as I stated above, I write to entertain.
I understand some readers like large books with impressive words, and that’s okay. I, myself, enjoy reading those books and learning new words. I think everyone should acquire new words and expand their vocabulary. However, for me as an Author, my books aren’t meant to impress readers with my knowledge, I simply want to entertain.
As far as Natural Writing Talent goes, I don’t think anyone has natural writing talent. What I mean by this statement is this, I believe some people are born to be natural storytellers, but learning how to ‘write’ the story is a different matter. No one is born with the natural ability to put words on paper with perfection; it’s a learned skill. So, no, I don’t believe anyone has natural writing ability. Natural Storytelling ability, yes.
Look, if you write, and you only receive negative responses, then yes, perhaps you should gauge your writing and see where you can improve. We all have room to improve on our writing. Even the most famed, successful writers have a need for improvement. I don’t care who they are. However, if over all, you’re getting good feedback on your books, then you might be a storyteller. You just have to gauge it for yourself and make that decision based on responses to your stories. The main thing is this, if you’re writing to make money, then that’s not a reason to write. You should write because you enjoy it. If you don’t enjoy telling the story, then it’s probably not for you.
So, if anyone tells you, you aren’t a naturally talented writer, agree with them, and smile. Then pick yourself up, and evaluate your writing. If there are flaws in your writing, then learn, improve, but above all, never quit writing because of someone else’s opinion of you or your writing style.
As always, I welcome responses to this post and look forward to them. If you want to check out my writing style, then check my work out at Amazon.
