With details of how to write in an original voice, here is the latest London Writers' Club newsletter:
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How to write in an original
voice*
Agents and publishers often say they are looking for
an original, new voice.
Some author's works are distinctively theirs. They
have developed a tone and style of writing, often addressing a
typical subject matter that makes their books instantly
recognizable.
Many bestsellers have achieved this: Dan Brown's
novels are unmistakable, as are Helen Fielding's, Terry Pratchett's
and Hilary Mantel's. It's interesting to take apart a piece of
a favourite author's writing, to analyse their voice and work out how
they do it.
Is it to do with the imagery they use, or with
sentence structure? Is it about patterns of thought or their vocabulary?
Have they mastered dialogue, using it in a distinctive way? Beginners
and more experienced writers alike can try a variety of genres and
subjects to find out what best suits. When it is right, ideas start
to flow and the writing begins to fall into place. However, copying
the style and mannerisms adopted by established writers in their new
genre won't help them develop an original voice.
Here are some tips for developing your unique
voice:
* Start from the way you speak. Try to sound as
natural on paper as you do in conversation. Don't pretend to be
someone you're not - you'll make mistakes.
* Identify aspects of writing that you enjoy and
that you'd like to do well, and consciously go about improving your
skills in those areas.
* Analyse the techniques of the bestselling
authors and learn from them.
* Avoid genre clichés in tone, style and
vocabulary.
* Practise. The more you write, the more natural
and effortless your voice will become. Be patient.
Join us in September for our first autumn event
with Samuel Hodder of Blake Friedmann on 18 September
Members come for free - and tickets are £15 in
advance.
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Bookseller discount for
members
50% discount for LWC
members
The Bookseller is the industry
magazine - giving insights into editors, agents, deals made and
publishing trends. We have negotiated a 50% discount for LWC members
(a discount worth £75). If you are a member already and would like
the code, email us - or if you'd like
to take advantage of this offer, join the club. Information
here.
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