I often talk about writers needing to be Jacks (or Jills) of all trades. Yes, we are in the business of creating stories that make people think or feel or laugh. But in order to do that successfully we need to conjure up the senses like a Michelin-starred chef. We need to bring whole worlds into being like a visionary architect or a landscape artist. We need to help our cast come to life like the great directors of cinema or stage. But one of the hardest skills to master is that of the ventriloquist—throwing our voice so it adapts to narrative and character.
Thanks for this, Matt. Really great stuff. I’m currently dithering about writing the first words for my new novel as not sure about the voice and POV to do it in. Also because I’m a bit scared I think! It’s been a long time since I wrote a novel. But I bought a new notebook and wrote the working title on the front, so I’m committed now!
Here Mr. Kendrick goes again: being as lively, imaginative, deep, and fun about a tricky-as-hell aspect of the writer's craft as possible. I will admit: I have read so far a third of this generously long essay. I will read it all and comment again, but I had to say something midstream :)
Thanks for this, Matt. Really great stuff. I’m currently dithering about writing the first words for my new novel as not sure about the voice and POV to do it in. Also because I’m a bit scared I think! It’s been a long time since I wrote a novel. But I bought a new notebook and wrote the working title on the front, so I’m committed now!
Super clear and useful post, Matt. Thanks for taking on this topic!
Here Mr. Kendrick goes again: being as lively, imaginative, deep, and fun about a tricky-as-hell aspect of the writer's craft as possible. I will admit: I have read so far a third of this generously long essay. I will read it all and comment again, but I had to say something midstream :)