Writing, Marketing, and Eye Candy

Photo Credit: Smath/Creative Commons

In today’s world we’re very visually motivated. Because of savvy marketing gimmicks, we often make decisions based on eye appeal and not performance. Bells and whistles and cross-the-heart promises sell us everything from dressed-up paperweights to lighter-than-air feather dusters–and usually, all for a mere $19.95.

From cleaning supplies, food, clothing, make-up, and countless everyday products to the more costly things such as cars, homes, and vacations, we are inundated with thousands of attractive choices. Some of the marketed goods live up to our expectations (and the touted guarantees), but many don’t.

Now, I like choices. I like the freedom to make an informed choice. I do have a bit of a problem with the wool being intentionally pulled over my eyes or when the “eye candy” is so sugary that it could make an aspirin seem sweet.

I’ve thought a lot about the eye candy analogy as I write. Fancy adjectives and detailed description (eye candy) are a writer’s bane. Crafting a tight, fast-paced story will win hands-down over eye candy almost every time.

Many years ago, I was sitting in a writing class taught by a petite, silver-haired matron who, I’m guessing, was about 80 or so at the time. I wondered what on earth I was thinking when I signed up for her class.

As it turned out, this woman was a wellspring of information. She was kind and approachable. She was also brilliant, detail-oriented, and had a genuine desire to share her knowledge of the craft she loved so much.

As she taught, she often repeated the obvious:

Write with passion. Write wise. Write honorably.

The more we hear things, the more likely we are to remember them. I guess that’s why her mantra stuck. (Kind of like when someone hears the Gospel initially. It may take many times before Christ’s message fully impacts.)

This instructor’s common sense basics stayed with me. To paraphrase:

When writing, think simple instead of “flowery.” Crafting a memorable story and penning a remarkable tale will always trump catalog-like description.

Dressing a skunk in finery can’t disguise its scent. These creatures might seem cute in cartoons, but getting up close and personal with them often turns out to be a stinky experience. In other words, all the “eye candy” in the world won’t help a poorly plotted novel.

See our work as a comparison shopper might. Initially, the bells and whistles might garner attention, but when the product is opened, will it delight or disappoint? Will the inside be what the outside has promised?

Verbs are not restmats. Choose action words carefully. Be creative. Strong verbs make readers turn pages.

Create colorful characters, but don’t get carried away with the paintbrush. A little description goes a long way. Simply describe the pretty dress without revealing the petticoat.

Rock your words. Let them stand on their own merit. Show that the “proof is in the pudding.” Craft a great story, trim the fat, and serve it in style.

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Can you think of an example of great marketing that influenced your decision to buy a product?

As a writer, what’s the most challenging aspect of the writing process?

Tweetables:

Writing Tips for the Faith-based Writer. (Click to tweet)

Why a Great Story Will Trump Eye Candy. (Click to tweet)

How Writing, Marketing, and Eye Candy Affect Us as Writers. (Click to tweet)

Photo Credit: Smath/Creative Commons 

Happy Friday and Blessings Always,