Technique for Crafting Concise Text: Principles of Sentence Structure and Impact
In the realm of writing, Richard Risemberg, a seasoned author, shares valuable insights on crafting concise, effective prose and giving each character a unique voice.
Risemberg advises against "grammatical masturbation" in writing, encouraging writers to focus on strong, active verbs, short and clear sentences, and the elimination of unnecessary words and complexity. He emphasises the importance of using vivid, direct verbs to make writing more engaging and straightforward, and breaking long, complex sentences into simpler ones for improved clarity and readability.
Editing is a crucial step in the process, according to Risemberg. After drafting, writers should ruthlessly remove redundant words, phrases, and over-explanations that do not advance the core message. He also suggests anticipating reader questions but avoiding over-explaining, ensuring points are clear enough so readers understand without needing external sources, but without overloading the writing with excessive detail or tangents.
Proofreading and revising are essential for precision and coherence, and getting external feedback can help catch unnoticed over-complications or unclear passages.
Risemberg places great emphasis on giving each character a unique voice. His second novel, "Family Ties", features twenty-one named characters with distinct voices. Interestingly, while he chooses to use the who/whom distinction and the subjunctive in his own speech, his characters do not.
Form should follow function in writing, Risemberg suggests. Writing is based on the spoken word, and if a writer runs out of breath while reciting, the reader may run out of patience. This principle is evident in Risemberg's current novels, which do not have the issue of over-writing.
Reading work aloud can help expose deficiencies in sentence structure and make a writer better. Verbal pyrotechnics can distract from the story, Risemberg warns, and he advises against their excessive use. Metaphor and simile can become distractions if overused in writing.
Risemberg, a guest post contributor, was dragged to Los Angeles as a child and has been working there in a number of vernacular occupations since his teens while writing poetry, articles, essays, and fiction, and editing online 'zines. He's survived long enough to become either a respected elder or a tedious old fart, depending on your point of view, and is still at it.
His characters speak like human beings, with indifferent grammar as part of their speech. This approach adds authenticity to his stories and makes them relatable to readers.
Richard Risemberg's novels can be learned about at Crow Tree Books. His writing journey serves as a testament to the power of discipline, editing, and a focus on the reader's experience in crafting compelling, concise prose.
Richard Risemberg's unique writing style extends beyond the realm of writing, as he applies his craftsmanship to home-and-garden articles, infusing them with the same clarity and engaging voice that characterizes his novels. His approach to writing, which emphasizes simplicity, authenticity, and reader engagement, can be seen in his home-and-garden pieces just as clearly as it is in his novels.
In addition to his work in literature, Risemberg's home is a reflection of his lifestyle, showcasing his eye for detail, his commitment to simplicity, and his ability to breathe life into ordinary spaces. His home, much like his novels, is a testament to the power of intentional design, editing, and a focus on the reader's (or in this case, visitor's) experience.
