Five Tips for Aspiring Authors

While technology has doomed the traditional mortar and brick bookstore, self-publishing is burgeoning. Although vast publication options offer a dual bonus for the writer and the reader, weaving a story through the yarn of words remains an art. Sure, constructing that first novel is an arduous task and even if tears occasionally fill the page instead of ink, those who are passionate about it will keep at it.

Whether engaged in marketing communications or creative writing, cementing a connection with your targeted audience is critical. So if you’ve decided to take the creative page’s plunge, here are five tips to consider when embarking on the journey: 

1.  Stay True to Your Own Voice

Style and tone are inclusive of voice, however, voice is better explained by the example that two people who share an experience simultaneously will rarely recount in the same way. As a writer, I tend to tease with vivid details prior to serving the story’s meat. It’s important to me to whet the reader’s appetite continuously by saying things in an unexpected way. If I abandoned this storytelling style, my voice wouldn’t be consistent.          

2.  Aim for Originality

Give readers a new experience. Whether in movies or on the dramatic screen, story commonalities are a given. Spark interest by seasoning stories with different flavors or different twists and turns. Even with identical ingredients, what one chef prepares will never resemble another’s in presentation or taste. If too predictable or a rehash, the reader may hesitate to sink his teeth into what you’ve written.             

3. Develop Characters Carefully

Avoid character overload unless you’re prepared to give character development ample attention. Once I picked up a book where the opening chapters had so many characters that I quickly dismissed it. Ask yourself if some characters merit inclusion and whether your story would be equally impactful without their presence.  

4. Provoke Thought

I’m particularly fond of stories that make me think. Cram a book with TMI and it’s possible to turn the reader off or sacrifice his imagination. Create depth by stirring emotion’s pot through searing analogies. Add mystery to prompt the reader to wonder where the story is going next instead of giving a baseball game play-by play. Toss in the literary device of foreshadowing to unfold a story. After all, there’s no diehard rule that demands every story be told chronologically. 

5. Be Mindful of Word Choices

I’ll never forget the English teacher who gave this advice: When used properly, simple words are capable of creating a large impression. I’m not suggesting that you avoid big words but use them sparingly and keep in mind that no one wants to be held hostage by a dictionary.