Thank you for sharing these insights—this kind of humanity is exactly what we need in our stories if we want them to matter! You presented a beautiful goal in this piece and gave practical steps to get there.
Conciseness is something I aim for in general, but in editing I find myself adding more words, simply because it feels like some sentences need that extra space to make a point. Or to not make a point but simply say something in a way where more words say it better than if it was an item on a list of bullet points.
This is particularly true when you're sharing feelings on things that are subjective, like books and movies. You may not fully understand why something moved you to tears, so writing about that will amble while you seek the overall point.
That's very true. I also default to conciseness, likely because of my multiple years' experience as copy/content writer. But I notice that long, rambling stories, when done well, really captivate me.
Thank you for sharing these insights—this kind of humanity is exactly what we need in our stories if we want them to matter! You presented a beautiful goal in this piece and gave practical steps to get there.
P.S. “Bird by Bird” is now on my reading list! 😉
You won't regret it!! I loved that book :D Thank you for your kind words, and let's keep on writing humanly together
Conciseness is something I aim for in general, but in editing I find myself adding more words, simply because it feels like some sentences need that extra space to make a point. Or to not make a point but simply say something in a way where more words say it better than if it was an item on a list of bullet points.
This is particularly true when you're sharing feelings on things that are subjective, like books and movies. You may not fully understand why something moved you to tears, so writing about that will amble while you seek the overall point.
That's very true. I also default to conciseness, likely because of my multiple years' experience as copy/content writer. But I notice that long, rambling stories, when done well, really captivate me.
Yes. The best stories have tangents and detours as part of their rhythm. They are what makes the story engaging and add pace
https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/02/more-than-words-john-warner-writing-generative-ai-chatgpt/