One Fine Sentence.

Writers draw inspiration from reading.

I read voraciously: poetry, non-fiction, fiction, wine labels, magazines, CD credits.

In the April issue of GQ is an article by Siobhan Rosen. She writes about how tricky supposedly simple one night stands are to execute with dignity.

A rich topic in her hands.

Her language is witty and informative and jarring.

Like this sentence:  "Morning-after mouths taste like crime scenes."

Paints a picture, no?

This kind of writing does what all great writing does: it stops you. You re-read the line.

And, if you're a writer, you wish you wrote it.

Doing What Works.

Sometimes things that shouldn’t work, do.

Sometimes things that once worked, no longer do.

And somettimes things that ought to work, don’t.

Well, fine.

As a writer--heck, in almost any profession--you have to experiment.

If you remember from fifth grade biology class, experiments often fail.

Also fine.

It's all part of the creative process.

The trick to doing what works is to be unafraid to fail.

In my experience, the more chances you take, the more likely your success. 

My advice is to start simply: a new format for an e-blast, a different tone in your marketing materials.

Try engaging other voices who bring a new perspectives.

Simply put, doing what works, works.   

Almost always.

 

Leave Them Wanting More.

The purpose of a great book title or headline is to inspire curiosity in the reader.

If you succeed, they will want to read further.

Don't you want to know more about a course entitled "Yoga for the Broken Heart?"

I do.

Aren't you curious about an article dubbed "When the Drummers Were Women?"

I am.

In my experience, some headlines have come easy. Often they don't.

But it's worth putting the extra effort into a compelling first line.

Because you've got one chance to grab 'em.


 

Word Painting.

When it comes to storytelling, country music is hard to beat.

I call it word painting because the imagery is so vivid, the language so spot-on.

Listen to this song by Lee Brice with your eyes closed.

Yes, his voice is emotionally charged, but those powerful lyrics are what we hear.

Every word, every sentence creates a message that is relatable. And unforgettable.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCSMCgqlc-0