Monday, February 4, 2013

Got Style?

In one of my creative writing courses, we discussed style and how new writers should find theirs and what to do once they've found it. Our textbook suggested writers start by looking at their favorite authors and then try to adapt or, for lack of a better word, copy their style. In doing so, the writer will truly discover what works for them and what doesn't, resulting in taking one step further in developing their own unique voice. I think this is a decent way to start. Most young writers feel lost and confused as to how they should start writing, and this is a simple and easy way to at least jump start their journey.

But what do you do once you've settled on your own way of working words? Well, like most things in writing, you keep writing. You write and write and write, and continue to refine your style. As a writer, you should aspire to keep growing and taking your work to the next level. There's nothing wrong with changing it up. Not all of your stories/ideas are going to require the same style. It can be a bit scary trying something new, but taking risks can be wonderful.

So, how did you guys find your style? Are you still working on it? Which author has influenced you the most?

3 comments:

  1. I ink style comes from reading. I try not to mimic other authors' styles though :)

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  2. I've found that the revision and re-writing process is where I've truly found my style. It wasn't until I forced myself to really focus on the execution — words, sentence structure, flow — that I found what works for me.

    It will take a while, but when you do find your style, you will definitely feel the light going on :)

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  3. It's almost like one creates one's style through sheer volume. Through writing and especially rewriting, we create a body of work, and a collection of self-imposed restrictions and choices end up being our "style". Voila!
    ~Just Jill

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