Thread: Writing styles

What is yours? I've had a few people read my work and the majority of them said the same thing. They disliked my writing style. Now this could mean a bevy of things, however when I asked them to explain what about the style they didn't like, they said they just didn't like my writing style. Perhaps my grammar was off and my choice of words was stale but 'till today I don't know what they meant, lol. So what's your writing style?

I think it's quite difficult to define a writing style, which is maybe why the people who have read your work have not been able to quantify what exactly they disliked. When I write, I tend to stick to plain, simple language. But I won't shy away from using more difficult words or expressions if they are better at capturing what I'm trying to say. I also like to have a bit of fun with language and sometimes like to share my thought processes with my readers (though technically I don't have any yet because I'm still working on my first book).

Writing style can also change depending on the type of book that you are writing. I'm working on a historical novel at the moment, so I've used some old fashioned words and expressions, and have included some etymological information about words that came into use at the time my book is set.

You could post some of your work on this forum if you want some specific feedback on your writing style.

I'm not so sure about writing style, but I think when writers are developing it is there voice that will become distinct. I'm not sure if this is part of a particular style, though.

I don't think I have a particular style, though I have a fondness for trying to paint pictures with strong words, and am fond too of long sentences. For the reader of my stories to get a strong sense of the place, to visualise it, is really important; though I consciously try to drip the setting into the story, never spending paragraphs describing scenes. I'm paranoid now, and want to check my work to make sure I don't do what I said I don't.

Hi Lillypop

Be of good cheer!...

There are all kinds of readers in this world, and receiving dislike feedback does not necessarily means negative. Sure, there will always be room for improvement but more importantly, you should press on to find your own writing style (from your heart) because there is always a group out there who is waiting to read your work! As an example, for my Heaven on Earth novel, my wife and 2nd girl love it but my eldest girl didn't appreciate my writing style.

Read it out loud. Best advice I've ever read, or given, and helps my own work whenever I follow my own advice. Words make sounds, and if you can't say it easily, then it isn't easy to read either. A large number of clunky sentences can be found by listening to it. No, I never read my posts out loud, I probably should, but I might spend too much time editing them.

I wouldn't worry too much about style, or voice, until you are publishing novels and want to change it. I haven't read your work, so I can't say what it is they don't like, but from my own experience, people try hard not to hurt peoples feelings. One of the reasons I went hunting for writing groups a few years ago. I needed someone to tell me it sucked, and preferably why. I don't learn if people don't tell me where I'm making mistakes.

If it isn't breaking any rules, you could pm me a page or two if you want, I haven't a problem being honest.