In today’s episode of The Writing Basket, Ellie talks about unearthing your unique writing voice! Everyone has a writing voice, but it can sometimes be buried under a load of fluff and grime that just doesn’t need to be there.
With the right care and attention, your writing can sound so much more like you than you’d imagine it ever could. And it’s worth the effort, too! When readers can truly hear an author’s voice, they remember the book so much more. And readers who remember your book are readers who might recommend your book to someone else! If you’re doing it right, your audience could grow quickly even without too much advertising. That’s a lot of payoff for such a small investment.
So, how do you capture your unique voice in your writing? It isn’t that easy, but here are a few tips that can help:
Read it out loud!
Every time you write, you’re putting your voice onto paper. But what if you weren’t just writing? Sometimes, speaking out loud can bring your speaking voice into your writing voice with ease! As you type, say exactly what you’re typing as you type it. While it might be a subtle trick, this can actually make a huge difference for your voice as an author!
Add some funny observations or metaphors!
So much in writing, whether you’re working on fiction or nonfiction, comes down to the descriptions. And while it might not seem all that important, exactly WHAT you’re describing can change everything. On any given object or person, you can only get away with a couple of descriptions. So, you don’t have much room to faff about and carelessly type away—everything you write down is vital, because you’re fighting for limited real estate! So, if you want your writing voice to stand out, picking and choosing specific, notable details and topping them up with authorial observations or metaphors can bring your prose to life.
Don't be afraid to be you!
Sometimes, it all comes down to how much you’ll let yourself express. Writing can be so personal, and mastering your voice will always rely on being vulnerable and humble, both on the page and in real life. Accepting criticism, but believing in yourself and giving yourself permission to be yourself—there are few steps as important as that. Trust yourself, and you’ll be okay.
The Writing Basket mini-podcast tips listeners on writing, character development, and more! Episodes upload every Tuesday and Thursday!
Written by (and starring) Ellie Nalle
