How do you define style? In my writing I use a fair amount of sentence fragments. Less commas than grammatically correct—if you stick to what you learned in English, those commas can drag a story along. I love similes if done well. And italics don’t bother me at all.
Some cinematographers use panoramic shots, taking advantage of magnificent scenery. Think the newest version of “Pride and Prejudice” (with Keira Knightley). Gorgeous. Others use choppy shots infused with monochrome or black and white. Some use different colors of filters to alter mood or create tension.
Style speaks as much about the creator of a piece as the piece itself. What is the author or director or painter or photographer saying with his/her expressions, colors, words, actions?
I want to create a mental movie for my readers, to get them inside the skins and heads of my characters. My stories deal with the emotions and spiritual realities of people living their lives. Some are outstanding, some are very ordinary. Some undesirable, others you want to have as friends or lovers. Dialogue must be real.
Style for me is the way the story is told. What does it mean for you, and how do you describe your writing style?
Lord, you are the Creator. You share it, you author it, you contain all beauty and imagination—all that is good. Help me to honor you with what you’ve given me. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Into the Fire 
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