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« Two Secrets for Young Writers | Main | Be Daring »
Saturday
Dec312011

Nice Writing Isn't Enough

Nice writing isn't enough. It isn't enough to have smooth and pretty language. You have to surprise the reader frequently, you can't just be nice all the time. Provoke the reader. Astonish the reader. Writing that has no surprises is as bland as oatmeal. Surprise the reader with the unexpected verb or adjective. Use one startling adjective per page.

ANNE BERNAYS

Posted on DateSaturday, December 31, 2011 at 12:02AM
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Reader Comments (1)

I thought we were supposed to avoid adjectives and adverbs. Now I am encouraged to seek one out. Oh, Mr. Maugham, where are you when I need you?

December 31, 2011 | Unregistered CommenterConfused

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