Vivid Descriptions

Ideas from Alice Walker & Hemingway

Alice Walker's writing method is not so different from Ernest Hemingway's 2-step method of writing:

1. Delve into a scene and describe it vividly -- never say the party was merely "exciting." Show WHY. Let readers feel we are there experiencing  everything first hand. Listen carefully, completely. Observe.

2. Do so with empathy. 

Then repeat, repeat, repeat. 

Walker wonders if it's possible to write a story/novel without conflict. She believes it is possible and I concur. To do so, simply put "a small picture into the mind of the reader."

Hemingway's Writing Rules
While writing for the Kansas City Star, Ernest Hemingway came up with these 4 writing rules. My additions are in brackets.

1. Use short sentences. But if they are shorter, they pack a greater punch. [Traditionally, the perfect sentence was said to be 17 words long. Mixing long and short sentences is also highly effective.]

2. Use short first paragraphs. The idea is to hook in readers without overwhelming them with too much info up front. Give just enough info for them to orient themselves into the story.

3. Use "vigorous English" -- highly focused, no wasted words, thoroughly edited. 
	Example of a weak sentence: He walked slowly.
	Buffed up vigorous English: He sauntered looking dejected.

4. Be positive, not negative -- for the most part, even when dealing with negative topics, do so in a positive way. This requires a shift in thinking.