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For writers there’s a different sense of vulnerability than what there might be in other professions.
We inject bits and pieces of our own soul into our prose. We strive for transparency without being too forthright.
Novelists must relate to readers in clear, concise ways that denote professionalism, not detachment. We want to connect and not overwhelm.
Obviously, we have to be creative about this. Since we each have our own style, what works for one won’t work for another. We have to speak in our own voice, use our own words, and express ourselves just as we might in real day-to-day scenarios. Ideally, we want to ring true to our readers.
When writing fiction, you might ask how does this work?
Don’t we allow the characters we create to speak or think in ways that we might not? To do things that are totally not us? To be individuals that are completely opposite of who we are? Of course we do! That’s why it’s called fiction.
What I’m talking about is more the heart, soul, drive, and meat of our work. It goes back to voice and brand. It’s our own personal spark—our own little light that sets our writing apart from others in similar genres.
My own personal style, as you may have guessed, is pretty down-to-earth and unpretentious.
How I am here on my blog is similar to how I write. The stories I pen are heartfelt, homespun reflections of me. My characters may have their own unique qualities, but at the end of the day, bits and pieces of who they are and who I am somehow mesh in a fabulous meeting of the minds.
When I’m feeling particularly philosophical, I sometimes wonder if the ultimate Author of Life knew what He was unleashing in us odd ducks, otherwise known as “writers.” He must have. How else do we explain this desire to know more, do more, be more? To burn with an intensity so strong that it can’t be extinguished?
That’s just how it should be with our blood-bought salvation.
We should choose to share the light not because we write, but because the light enables us to do so.
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What’s your ministry?
In what ways do you choose to share your light?
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PLEASE SHARE
As writers, here’s what sets us apart from others in our genre:
(The winner of Miracle in a Dry Season by Sarah Loudin Thomas is Tina Hunt.
Congratulations, Tina!
Please e-mail me your address so I can get this fabulous book to you! )
Blessings Always,
Comments 4
Great post, and very timely for me.
I thought that writing was my mission, but recent events in life – some seemingly unconnected with writing – have completely undermined my confidence, and I do not know if I will write another word of fiction.
All I can really do now is to continue to encourage others, and in my personal comportment to remain a gentleman, regardless of personal feelings.
Author
Andrew—take a deep breath. Don’t you know, my friend, all of us struggle with those gut-wrenching moments of insecurity? They strike without warning and nibble away at our self-confidence. (Normal!) Agented writers, noted authors, and multi-degreed professionals experience this.
I don’t know your personal situation, but if it’s writing mechanics you can build on that. If it’s Negative Nelleys or Downer Dans, don’t let their mindset cripple your mission. You have a brilliant mind with a heart for people. God’s gifted you with everything you need to accomplish His purpose and fulfill your vision. His blessings are already covering you. (Ephesians 1:1-6)
Wallow for a while. Then… stand tall. And go again.
OOOH such a wonderful post, Cindy! I write too, but I also teach a new & growing believers class every Wednesday at my church. It’s a huge passion and I adore doing it. I even wrote the curriculum. There’s something incredible about giving back your God-given gifts as an offering to the One who gave them to you! And I never fail to cry each seven weeks when class members come and tell me what God has done in and through them because of the study and the teaching. It blesses me so! You bless me so, too!
Author
Jess, and you bless me, friend! I’d love to be a little fly on the wall at your class sessions—I know you are touching lives and enriching our Father’s kingdom. And congratulations on your new devotional series over on your blog! Looking forward to it!