Finding Your Unique Voice and Style

Writers struggle with the concept of style and its definition. Think of writing style as the fingerprint of an author. It’s what makes their work recognizable and memorable; what makes your writing unmistakably yours. Finding your writing style is a combination of what you enjoy reading and how you want to tell your story.

Writing style is the distinctive way a writer uses language. It's more than just grammar and vocabulary; it's the personality of your writing, reflecting your unique voice and perspective. Your writing style determines how effectively you communicate your message and connect with your audience.

Why is writing style important?

• Engagement: A compelling style keeps readers hooked.

• Clarity: A well-defined style ensures your message is easily understood.

• Differentiation: It sets you apart from other writers.

• Credibility: A consistent and appropriate style builds trust with your readers.

  
  

The four elements intertwine to create flavors within your work. As you begin to write, there are common threads that run through all the stories. Some writers like long expositions, and others have robust dialogue intermixed with short exposition to establish the setting. It doesn't mean that one component is better than the other. The best analogy is that flour, water, yeast, and sugar can make bread or a cake, depending on how much of each ingredient is added or subtracted.

Writing style guides readers to your stories. It establishes a protocol; readers want to know what to expect with your stories. The interest in and desire to read a story/book vary depending on a reader's circumstances, for example:

• Do I need to focus on every sentence?

• Can I read this in short bouts while I'm waiting for the bus/subway?

• Can I feel cozy and comforted while reading this book?

Those questions aren't meant to twist your writing into something considered "on trend" or "marketable". The main purpose is to help understand why readers review your work in a certain manner. It helps you analyze a review or rejection of a publication with proper distance. The thoughts of a reviewer/editor might merely be a matter of taste in a particular style that led to a positive or negative review or publication acceptance. It doesn't reflect on the inherent nature of whether you are a "good" or "bad" writer. Understanding your style and what attracts your readers gives you a perspective on your work.

Discovering your writing style takes time. The best way I've found to identify my "voice" is to evaluate why I gravitate towards certain books/authors.

• Was it how the writer described a scene?

  • I like it when a writer is unique in their descriptions, in how they set the scene, and in how they let the writer immerse themselves in the world.

• Did I like long descriptions or prefer dialogue?

  • I prefer dialogue with breaks of describing the scene itself. Characters are revealed to me through what they say and how they interact with other characters.

• Does the variation of structure intrigue me?

  • I like the sophistication of phrasing. If it's an action scene, I want short sentences to add the urgency of the moment.

    
    

Answering these questions for yourself can clarify your writing and help you understand your personal style. Remember, your voice is a gift. It’s the melody that turns simple words into a song only you can sing. So, pick up your pen, open your laptop, or grab your notebook - your story is waiting to be told. May your pen always find the words that sing.