Twist My Arm

 

Twist My Arm

By John W. Vander Velden

 

When it comes to writing, I am still learning and expect to for as long as my fingers trip over the keys. In most ways, writing is a solitary endeavor. Yet like all things there are those outside influences that even those, who work on their lonesome, will face.

For writers one of the more common things that they face is the dreaded deadline. I, myself, refuse to accept deadlines imposed by others. It is one of the advantages of being self-published. But there are times I self-impose a date for finishing some portion of my writing task. Timetables I set are different―sorta.

But the dreaded deadline, even if it is my own, is not the only outside force I face. Though I will not pretend, I know or understand the mechanics of this language I am forced to use, there are times when someone suggests that I rearrange my words or stories simply, because. Because, I am told, it is what readers expect, or a thousand other reasons, many touch on marketing and today’s trends.

You need to write more like…(fill in the blank)…or… (fill in another blank).

There was a time I might have buckled under, but not today.

It hinges on a great bit of advice, I received from the manager of a bookstore, that hosted one of my book signings. Greg said, “John if you write like everyone else, all you are going to produce is a book like everyone else’s, and there are enough of them already.”

You see it is about, what writers call, voice. And each of us that dare, to thread words on strands to form stories, tries to develop a voice. Something unique, something that is as individual as the person telling his or her tale. I am like no other individual―why should my words be set in exactly the same patterns as another.

I believe my editor understands this, as she carefully coaches me in my writing growth. Helping me clarify, without sacrificing my style that is like no other. She does not put words in my mouth, or indiscriminately butcher sentences I have crafted. And I thank Kristina for her understanding and patience.

But I also will stand firm in my desire to stay true to my voice. I try to put music into the language I write. When I read the lines I must hear the tone, and when things work at their best feel something. No, not every line carries that music, but I want enough of them, so it is not some once in a book experience.

Once a writer friend looked at me like I had lost my mind when I said, “I write for the way it sounds.” And I do. At times that battles with clarity. At times it seriously breaks the rules of writing, but in the end, I believe, my readers appreciate the effort.

You see, when it comes to my writing style―I refuse to allows others to twist my arm.

7-14-2023 (510 Words)