My Reliable Reference

On my desk, a selection of books awaits my attention, serving both as references and sources of leisure reading. I frequently change these titles, yet one remains a constant presence.

Clear English: How to Improve Your Style by Frank & Andrew St. George, published in 1966, has become my daily resource. I spotlight this book for two reasons:

1. It's my essential reference when writing, and you may find it beneficial as well.
2. The authors highlight that defying writing rules comes with risks.

This week, I've found the allure of taking risks particularly enticing.

Revisiting My Work

Reflecting on the past few days, I've engaged in rewriting and revising numerous drafts, yet I haven't felt inclined to publish anything. Although I’ve browsed my desk for inspiration, I’ve struggled to focus on any serious writing. Then, I turned to my trusty Clear English book and stumbled upon the section dedicated to rewriting, resonating deeply with my current state of mind.

It began with the mantra:

"Write, read, rewrite, reread, rewrite."

This perfectly encapsulated my week.

Rewriting and Editing

As I look back, it's clear that I've followed the advice outlined at the beginning of this chapter. I've written, read, rewritten, reread, and then rewritten some more. Here’s a concise summary of the authors' recommendations on effective rewriting:

• Editing entails eliminating unnecessary words rather than adding more.
• Reflect on enhancing your writing even during breaks.
• Adopt the mindset of a reader when editing.
• Utilize short sentences and straightforward language.
• Be direct and ensure every word serves a purpose.
• Eliminate redundant phrases and clichés.
• Avoid generalizations; specificity is key.
• Remove abstract nouns.
• Consider if every sentence is truly essential.

This guidance is incredibly practical, but the last point stands out the most. The primary rule of language allows us to bend the rest. However, in writing, defying conventions does involve some degree of risk.

With the freedom to break the rules, perhaps this will help quell my restlessness during the editing process.

Success in Rule-Breaking

Understanding that breaking the rules is permissible has been liberating. For the first time in several days, I feel motivated to hit publish. The liberty to disregard conventions is exhilarating.

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The first video, "5 Writing Rules You Should Totally Break," offers a fresh perspective on traditional writing norms. It encourages writers to embrace their unique style and think outside the box.

In the second video, "Writing Rules are Guidelines," we explore the idea that rules in writing serve more as suggestions rather than strict laws, promoting creativity and individual expression.