TUCKER ON Writing Well

Over 30 years ago, I received my bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Tennessee. Despite the passing of time, I still hold dear two items from my five-year educational journey: my framed diploma and a small book entitled “The Word: An Associated Press Guide to Good News Writing” by Rene J. Cappon. This little guidebook has been a constant presence on my bookshelf, and I am even lucky enough to have two copies, though I cannot recall how the second copy came into my possession.

As I sit at my desk today, Cappon’s words still ring true. He begins by emphasizing the importance of the lead, or the opening sentence of a story. His advice is to keep it concise, stating that each word should be worth ten dollars and be engraved on stainless steel while sitting on a hot stove. In other words, think economy. I can personally attest to the frustration of reading a long-winded lead that takes forever to get to the point. As a news reporter, I was taught to aim for 30 words or less when crafting a lead.

Cappon goes on to advise news writers to keep their language short, familiar, and specific. He advocates for the use of simple words rather than complex ones, as well as choosing the familiar over the fancy. In essence, he encourages writers to prioritize clarity and accessibility over flashy language and unnecessarily complex vocabulary.

Even after all these years, I return to Cappon’s guidebook for inspiration and guidance. His lessons on concise writing and clear language have stuck with me throughout my journalism career, and I continue striving for simplicity and clarity in all my writing.

The principles of concise and clear writing apply to fiction writing as well. In fact, they are crucial for creating compelling stories that capture readers’ attention and keep them engaged. A strong opening sentence or paragraph is essential for drawing readers in and setting the tone for the rest of the story. Just as Cappon advises in his guidebook, fiction writers must prioritize economy in their writing, using only the words necessary to convey their message and create an immersive reading experience.

In fiction, being short, familiar, and specific with language can help to create relatable and memorable characters. Rather than relying on overly complex language, fiction writers can use simple, familiar words to create characters that feel authentic and real. This allows readers to better connect with the characters and their experiences, making the story more emotionally impactful.

Moreover, concise writing can help to create a sense of tension and urgency in the story. By carefully choosing each word and sentence, fiction writers can craft a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Short, sharp sentences can be particularly effective in creating this effect, as they convey a sense of urgency and intensity.

Overall, concise and clear writing principles are just as important in fiction as in news writing.

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