Who are you as a writer? That can be a hard question to answer when you’re starting out.
After crafting a cohesive and compelling storyline, following the grammatical rule of law, and trying to have the perfect diction, evaluating whether you have a distinct voice can be forgotten.
More importantly, it can be hard to understand what constitutes a writer’s voice. While it’s made up of choices of style, structure, and diction, voice acts like a writer’s fingerprint. A strong voice is utterly distinct from others and can identify the writer without reading the byline.
With people putting pen to paper for centuries, it can feel like mission impossible to stand apart from the writers who came before us. The key is to be genuine.
Don’t get lost in trying to express yourself in perfect style.
If brief, punchy sentences convey your sarcastic nature – go with it. While it may not follow Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style, it can elevate your story and become a key part of your voice.
Using current slang and colloquialisms can bring your culture perspective to your work.
With that being said, both of those tactics will not resonate with everyone. Some people will view the story as choppy and unsophisticated – but that’s okay.
Where you lose your identity is trying to be everything to everyone. Not all readers will enjoy your style of writing – that’s a fact. Even the famous J.K. Rowlings and Steven Kings of the world can’t please everyone.
If you’re looking to find or elevate your own voice, here are three things to consider:
1. Practice makes perfect
The best thing you can do to find what works for you is to practice. Try out writing in different styles and structures, look for new or different words to enhance your story, and ultimately do what feels right. Becoming a good writer doesn’t happen overnight, so keep working on it.
2. You’re not alone
There are lots of informative and useful resources available to help you hone your writing. Whether it’s taking a formal class, researching online, or asking subject experts, there are tips and tricks out there to help you on your journey. You don’t need to figure it all out on your own, take advance of the information available to you.
3. Be open
Sharing what your write can be hard for a lot of writers – but it’s the best way to grow. Hearing what others think of your writing can help guide your voice. While it can be hard to hear that your sarcasm didn’t punch through, it will help you in the long run. Constructive criticism will open your eyes to opportunities to bring your writing to the next level.
Chelsea Tucker, Co-Editor-in-Chief
