When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it’s going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in the way he describes what he sees.
Elmore Leonard
Developing a unique writing style is an exciting journey that involves discovering your strengths and weaknesses as a writer. By embracing your strengths and actively working on your weaknesses, you can create a writing style that showcases your talents while continuously growing as a writer. Embracing your unique perspective, employing literary devices, and using sensory details are effective techniques to enhance your descriptions and captivate readers.
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- 1 When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it’s going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in the way he describes what he sees.
- 2 Elmore Leonard
- 3 Meaning of Quote – When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it’s going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in the way he describes what he sees.
- 4 Freely Shareable Quote Image
- 5 Related
Meaning of Quote – When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it’s going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in the way he describes what he sees.
Developing your own unique writing style is an exciting and ongoing journey. It involves discovering your strengths and weaknesses as a writer, and harnessing the former while working on the latter. As American writer Elmore Leonard once said, “When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses.”
One of the challenges writers often face is describing things. Whether it’s a person, a place, an object, or even an emotion, finding the right words to paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind can be daunting. However, rather than seeing this as a roadblock, it’s important to view it as an opportunity for growth.
Throughout history, many renowned authors have excelled in their ability to create detailed and immersive descriptions. From the poetic and evocative descriptions in the works of William Shakespeare to the rich and vibrant landscapes depicted by J.R.R. Tolkien, these writers have provided a masterclass in descriptive writing.
It’s essential to remember that being aware of your weaknesses and actively working on them is key to becoming a well-rounded writer. If, like Elmore Leonard, you feel that describing things is not your strong suit, it’s perfectly fine to steer clear of it while you focus on honing your other skills. By acknowledging and embracing your strengths, you can develop a unique style that showcases your talents.
One effective technique to compensate for weaknesses in description is to rely on the perspective of your characters. Leonard remarks, “And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it’s going to be from the point of view of the character.” By allowing your characters to serve as the lens through which the reader experiences the story, you can harness their voice and utilize their distinctive attitude to enhance descriptions.
Imagine a scenario where your protagonist, a young teenager named Lily, diligently works on an intricate painting. Instead of attempting a lengthy description of the colors and brushstrokes, you can adopt Lily’s point of view to capture her emotions and thoughts. Through her eyes, the vivid blue may represent her aspirations, the subtle strokes mirroring her delicate approach to life, and the bold splatters showcasing her confident spirit. By employing Lily’s perspective, the reader gains a deeper understanding of her character and the significance behind her art.
In addition to character perspectives, utilizing literary devices can also enrich your descriptions. Similes and metaphors, for instance, allow you to create associations and comparisons that evoke strong imagery. By likening a gentle breeze to a whispering lover or a bustling marketplace to a beehive, you can add an extra layer of depth and creativity to your writing.
Furthermore, utilizing sensory details can make descriptions more engaging and immersive. Instead of merely stating that a room is messy, you can describe the cluttered space by mentioning the sight of books strewn across the floor, the smell of stale coffee, the sound of papers being shuffled, and the touch of stepping on a stray pencil. Engaging multiple senses not only brings the scene to life but also helps readers connect with the setting on a more personal level.
While working on descriptions from a character’s point of view can be an effective strategy, it’s important to strike a balance and not rely solely on one perspective throughout your writing. Exploring different perspectives, including your own as the narrator, can provide a more comprehensive and well-rounded experience for the reader.
In addition to character perspectives and sensory details, it’s crucial to maintain consistency and coherence in your writing style. Your voice as a writer should be distinct and recognizable, allowing readers to form a connection and become familiar with your work. As you continue to develop your style, remember to remain true to yourself, embracing your unique strengths and finding ways to overcome your weaknesses.
It’s worth noting that developing a personal writing style requires time, practice, and exploration. Don’t feel discouraged if it takes a while to find your groove or if you encounter obstacles along the way. Writing is a journey, and every word you put on the page contributes to your growth as a writer.
So, take inspiration from Elmore Leonard’s advice and use your strengths to your advantage as you develop your style. Embrace the perspective of your characters, employ literary devices, and utilize sensory details to create vivid and engaging descriptions. Remember, you have the power to craft a writing style that is uniquely yours one that captivates readers and invites them on a journey through your words.
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