4 Writing Principles Every Writer Should Know
Book Review: On Writing Well
I know this book as a recommendation from my friend. She writes lots of business documents at work. So do I.
The whole book focuses on how to write nonfiction, such as business documents, memos, tech/science, or travel articles. The most touching section is the principles. I could not agree more and would like to share them with you.
#1: Clarity
This is the most obvious but the most difficult to achieve principal.
At first, a writer needs to clear his/her mind about the topic and structure. Next, the author needs to clear about how to collect materials. Last, the article should be written in clear sentences, with clear and precise word choices.
The ultimate goal for every writer is to use English to achieve clear communication.
Using English to achieve the greatest Clarity and Strength. — On Writing Well
#2 Warmth
We, as writers, should always keep our readers in mind. Do not accumulate tons of jargon. That would not make you more advanced, but make you cold and crude.
Be warm to your reader. Let them ramp up easily. Welcome them with your warmth. Use simplified sentences, clear and precise word choices. Explain complicated technical issues with simple narrative sentences.
Our goal is to make clear communications, not let you feel privileged.
#3 Be Yourself
These are the questions I used to ask myself. Why should I write? Who are my readers? Will my readers like it? How could I please them, etc?
I never find the answers to any of these questions, until I read this book.
Writing is all about me and myself. I write all these articles to share my thoughts and opinions, my experience and knowledge.
Writing is a craft, I need to keep practicing to master it. I would do my best work to make my writing proper and nutritious, but the attitude will always be writing for myself.
I could not predict my readers, so I would just be myself, write for myself.
Believe in your own identity and your own opinions. Writing is an act of ego, and you might as well admit it. Use its energy to keep yourself going. — On Writing Well
#4 Make One and One Point Only
Think small. Decide what corner of your subject you’re going to bite off, and be content to cover it well and stop. Decide what single point you want to leave in the reader’s mind. — On Writing Well
Every article’s space is limited. So does the author’s enthusiasm. Our world is complicated with unlimited angles. We could not cover everything within one article.
Pick one topic, think clearly, and make your point solid with strength.
Cutting the enemy’s one finger is better than hurting 5. — Chairman Mao.
Summary:
We introduce the book: On Writing Well, and the 4 writing principles: Clarity, Warmth, Be Yourself, and Make One and One Point Only.
I believe these clear and simple principles would guide my writing voyage. Hope you would share a similar opinion.
Amazon Affiliate Link: On Writing Well