Into the Fire

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Got style?

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So we talked about voice, but there's something that contributes to voice yet stands on its own. A writer's style can eventually be recognized. I recently read an author's latest novel and was surprised when I didn't hear her voice or see her style. Because of that, I didn't really care for the book. For me, it wasn't "her".

Style is formed by the construction of sentences, the uses of verbs, adverbs, adjectives, and things like dashes, ellipses, sentence fragments, and generally whether or not a writer sticks to the more formal grammar or opts for the relaxed and rule-bending choices. Between voice and style, authors can become recognizable in their work even if they vary their genres. A good example of an author who I think has successfully established both his voice and style in different genres is Travis Thrasher. If you've read his rather large scope of differing types of novels, you know what I mean.

Another author who writes thrillers and has a distinctive voice and style is Robert Liparulo. His breakneck speed of thrilling plots only slowed slightly for one of his adult thrillers. It's his style to keep the action moving fast, and he does it well.

Have you determined what styles of writing are your favorites? I enjoy many styles and voices, and I love those that break the norms provided they tell a good story and don't write to show off their literary skills.

 

Father, we all need you. To use our gifts/talents for your glory, we need your direction. Please direct my writing. I'm desperate for you. Always. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.

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3 responses to “Got style?”

  1. Debra Avatar
    Debra

    Thanks to your explanation, I think I understand a bit of the difference between voice and style. So, I’ll give this a shot.
    Usually I prefer short sentences. Even fragments and “sentences” containing one or two words are very effective. You have some great ones in Breath of Life. However, you also have some beautiful long sentences in The Famous One. 🙂
    Something else I like is the thoughts of a character in italics. Again, I think I saw that in one of your stories.
    With very few exceptions I prefer a minimum of dialogue. Otherwise I feel like I’m reading a script. I have the same feeling when there’s too much action.
    For some reason, I don’t usually like actual scripture included in the stories. This came up on your blog a while back, and I think it was Brenda Anderson who said she always skips over them. I do too, despite the fact that I have a great love of scripture and hate to miss a day of reading it.
    Yesterday evening I remembered how much I like Steven James. I think it’s his voice I like, but maybe it’s his style too. I don’t like books that are terrifying and that get into the minds of psychopaths, but I have read The Pawn through The Queen and loved those books. I know that I love his portrayal of Patrick Bowers.

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  2. Nicole Petrino-Salter Avatar
    Nicole Petrino-Salter

    Geez, I could listen to your thoughts about my writing all day long, Deb. So affirming and uplifting. God knows how much I need you as a friend. Thank you from my heart.
    Yes, I think you get it. Style is construction, turns of phrase. Do you recall how Patrick Bowers always says “So.” Usually internal dialogue. I like that and have commandeered that simple expression from him in this blog and occasionally in a story. That two letter word says so much. He is a master storyteller and enthralls with his words and complex plots.
    If dialogue is good, I can take a lot of it, but only if it’s real and meaningful or hilarious – and there aren’t many who can effectively do hilarious.
    I remember when Christian authors were down on italics – some saying they should never be used. Baloney. They’re the perfect choice for a character’s thoughts, and, yes, I use them frequently for that.
    I know how precious the Word is, but somehow it gets trivialized when it’s “written” out in a story. There’s a place here and there for it, but, yes, it can get overlooked when directly quoted – and that’s exactly what we don’t want to happen.
    You get it, Deb, in so many ways.

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  3. Debra Avatar
    Debra

    Yes! I do remember that Patrick Bowers always says “So.” I like it too. It is perfect for that character.

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