Elmore Leonard: 10 ways to “remain invisible” in your writing | 43 Folders—How depressing. We spend so much time working on voice with students, and here is a list of ways to squelch it. Valuable in ways, I'm sure. Actually, the
target article explains, "These are rules I’ve picked up along the way to help me remain invisible when I’m writing a book, to help me show rather than tell what’s taking place in the story."
Leonard's goal is fine: to focus on showing rather than telling. What I find troubling is the language Leonard uses to describe this move—"remain invisible." I don't want writers to think that they disappear. I want them to own that voice of theirs. To be proud of it. To know what makes it strong and their own. Regardless of the tips, the name of the tactic is disappointing.
Posted Wednesday, 15-Feb-2006 20:46:11 PST
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