Over the past month I’ve been a part of two on-line critique groups. The purpose is to help writers polish their manuscripts before entering writing contests. This is a time-consuming activity but very enlightening.
What an eye-opener! As I study the submissions and follow the framework for judging, all of the essentials for good writing soar to the top of the list.
Point of view, goal, motivation, conflict and voice to name just a few. Especially voice. The reader can overlook many things but if the voice is engaging then I’m pulled along through the manuscript. And I want more. And I’m intrigued as to ‘how’ did they achieve that voice.
The topic of ‘voice’ piqued my curiosity and I headed to my bookshelf to see what I had on my reference shelf. I found ‘Voice & Style’ by Johnny Payne (1995) -a Writer’s Digest Book. Payne contends that ‘voice’ is the key element in fiction. And he has lots to say. Looks like I’ve discovered my evening reading.
My idea of a perfect day would be a walk by the sea, watching the herons, seagulls, noting the ocean’s many shades of blue, and maybe hearing an eagle’s silvery squeak. After that my first choice would be appy’s and wine with a good friend. If our conversation happened to include romance writing, all the better.
Daniela