What makes for that rarely encountered great piece of blog-writing?
I know it when I see it, and I see it here.
There are ways to take it apart and analyze the components, if you are looking for guidance in your own writing. You note the opening image, a speedy blur and then a rapid zoom into the person who is the focus of the piece. You note the economy of choices made. You notice the way the reader is carefully ushered along with no confusion as to where the next door leads. You note the superb attention to visual angling, background sound, and interior emotions. You note the timing.
Is it possible to learn this type of story telling? I think not. Either you have it in you or you don't. Teachers can give you polish and help you avoid excesses, but they cannot give you instincts. This is not to say that we are brilliant every time we touch the keyboard, but sometimes...and this is one of those times for Miss Lynette.
"Perge modo et qua te ducit via dirige gressum," said Venus to Aeneas.
5 comments:
I think you have a point there. I've tried to explain how to write: from the structural standpoint, to how to simply write a basic sentence. I can't do it.
Some elements of writing can be taught; others are instinctual and are only learned through practice, practice, practice.
Agreed! You can break it down into pieces, but the whole is much greater than the sum of it's parts. She has an uncanny ability to draw the reader in, emotionally engage them, and lead them flawlessly through to her conclusion. What comes across the most to me is a sense of honesty, humility, and the willingness to lay herself bare in pieces like this. It is incredibly generous.
My word verification is "preconed". I must have a Merry Christmas in store...
I really loved this story too. It reminds me of one of the much repeated pieces of advice that I have heard about writing. Honesty. If you aren't writing honestly about something, it will always come through. This piece was so full of the sorrow and joy of memory and regret that you were in the car with Lynette driving through the night.
Thanks for sharing that blog with me Beautiful.
Tony, I had no idea you had linked to that piece about my daddy. I am grateful for your input. You have such a fine skill with words yourself, that it means a lot coming from you. Although I don't believe a word of it, thank you, sweet man.
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