Finding Our Voice by L. Diane Wolfe

Finding Our Voice

These words mean different things to different people. Finding our voice implies our own unique style of storytelling. Where does our voice begin and how can we bring it to the surface?

We must first consider the origins of our writing style. For many, this begins with the books we’ve read in the past. Over the course of our life, we devour and experience numerous authors. As our tastes mature, we develop favorites and discard those with less appeal. While some may enjoy a wide variety of authors, many settle into a comfort zone with their reading material.

Once we decide to embark on a writing path, we often emulate a favorite author or style. Almost subconsciously, we imitate the dialogue and description. Since we enjoy and find pleasure in that person’s books, we strive to recreate that feeling in our own work. The flow of our story will contain similar ebbs and wander over a familiar course.

Along the way, college, critique groups, and specialized training further our writing abilities. Our capability as a storyteller grows, continually shaping our writing style. Experience teaches us new tricks and polishes our talent. This also affects our writing style. Even our choice of genre will affect the sound of our voice.

Through all of these experiences, we slowly discover a style that is uniquely our own. Successful authors develop their style early, using it to their advantage to reach their audience. Never forget the lessons learned regarding proper writing and grammar. However, we must maintain the appropriate flow of our story without stifling creativity. Our voice will gradually take shape as we settle on a level that is both comfortable and yet still makes us stretch. Even as we rely on our knowledge, ultimately, we must be true to ourselves.

I believe the key to finding our voice resides in our passion. If our subject matter excites and moves us, it will become very apparent in our work. Just as a reserved individual will come to life when someone hits his hot button, so our words must embody this inner enthusiasm. When our dedication and passion flow freely, our personality will literally shine in our work. We may not excel as expressing ourselves verbally, but on paper, we burst forth with life. This gives rise to a voice that is uniquely our own.

We cannot forget proper writing techniques. But by leaving inhibitions behind, we will find our true voice, and it will come from the heart!

- Author & professional speaker, L. Diane Wolfe www.spunkonastick.net www.thecircleoffriends.net