The Rhythm of Writing
Words are Like Music When the Right Notes are Played
Capturing the reader's attention is like captivating an audience with music. Both are derived from the same source; rhythm. The relationship of one sentence to another is often ignored by novice writers. They see each sentence as a stand alone piece. In order to 'hear' the music of a work of writing, fiction or nonfiction, each sentence must be in harmony with its neighbor.
Sentence Structure
An old adage tells us 'variety is the spice of life'; never more true than in writing. Vary the sentences. If a long sentence is used follow it with a short one. If one sentence is a declarative one don't follow it with another declarative sentence. Too much simplicity will disrupt the harmonic flow. Build the work to a crescendo by repeating short emphatic sentences followed by a longer sentence. English instructors advise against the use of sentence fragments but they can be used to create emphasis.
Placement of Words
Important words should appear at the end of the sentence. Don't be tempted to over-explain your point. If something can be said succinctly, with the main point at the end, don't muddy the waters by adding a already established fact. Eliminate useless words. If a word, or series of words, simply reinforce what has gone on before - take them out.
Tricks of the Trade
Using ellipses is a stylistic approach to gaining rhythm and emphasis in your writing. An ellipsis is a period used in three spaces which tells the reader that a part of the sentence has been omitted. Four periods indicate the absence of an entire sentence. Use the ellipsis conservatively. Too much of a good thing becomes a boring thing. Prepositional phrases, specifically those that contain the word 'of' are great for conclusions and bring home the point without undue verbiage.
Know when to Quit
With practice, and reading work aloud, it becomes apparent when a piece of writing is overdone. If the sentences are long and wordy edit them down to size. To eliminate the creeping plague of long winded sentences try to keep subjects and verbs close together. It not only reads more smoothly, or melodious, it makes the sentence easier to understand. Again, cut out the little words that tie a sentence in knots.
Using the Paradox
The use of paradox, a self-contradictory statement, breaks the monotony and offers the reader a challenge. It attracts the intellect and asks the reader to decide which is right. Did the writer really say what they thought he said? Paradox statements spark interest and add to the overall enjoyment of the work. Again, use this tactic sparingly.
Reading is Writing
Make it a point of not only reading personal work aloud but work of other writers you admire. Note the ease and fluidity of the words. Look closely at the sentences and their construction. Emulation of the author is not the object of this exercise - it is to impose crafted creativity to the writing process.
For further words of writing wisdom visit the website of Dan Perez.
Source: Keys to Great Writing, Stephen Wilbers, Writer's Digest Books, F&W Publications, 2000
The better part of writing is editing.
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