Reading Makes the Best Writing
Ever heard someone use big words and you didn’t have a clue what they meant? Or what about people referencing an historical figure, foreign city
or government leader, none of whom you recall studying? The big-syllable user and fashionable intellect easily could have learned those words in a publication that’s found at a library, bookstore or on online, not at the supermarket check-out counter.
With today’s technology overloading the minds of many, fundamental book reading may be suffering. Regardless, I challenge you to do more reading. Why? Simple – readers make the best writers.
Reading expands your mind to new ways of expressing yourself, articulating specific visuals or describing an individual, all of which enrich the reader’s experience. Reading helps keep your writing fresh and flowing; plus you gain knowledge about subjects that can contribute to your writing or spark an idea. Whether you read about current events, history, biographies or fiction, your writing will benefit, as will your readers.
It’s true, but I have to admit that unless I enforce a reading hiatus when I’m writing, I tend to find myself scribbling in an all-too-similar manner to whatever book it is that’s I’m on with at the time!
I would agree that reading definitely makes you a better writer, but it still does not give license to use big words or obscure references in your writing. Those do have their place, but they should be avoided unless explained or at least pertinent and relevant to your subject. To me, big words carry the same stigma as jargon.
@Susan – nice post!
@James – I agree that obscure references should be avoided — they simply don’t add anything for the reader if too out there.
I don’t think you need a license to use big words at all — write whatever words come naturally … just remember to be true to yourself.
Telling a writer not to expand their vocabulary is like telling a jeweler not to expand their collection of gems. If anyone can get away with using big words, it’s a word loving writer.
That said, I see James’ point: It’s typical for new writers to use big words in effort to position themselves with more skill, experience, or authority than they really have … which usually ends up just looking supercilious. :)
All good points, especially the “be true to yourself.” That’s a great life principle in general. Thanks for your feedback, and your comments are welcome on my blog at http://www.EveryDayPR.net.
Susan
I agree that reading is so crucial to good writing. I always maintain that great writers are great readers and try to reinforce that to my students. Some people are under the misconception that writing either happens or it doesn’t and that people are either born writers or not. While some may have a natural talent for it, people become writers, and anyone can improve his/her writing skills by reading more.
Hi,
I agree that as writers we need to expand our mind and learn different techniques, different moods etc. And a great way to do that is by reading. I love Dean R. Kootnz stuff. He writes simple yet conveys his message wonderfully.
I could only dream to write as great as he does. You are right, it is easy to become influenced by what you’re reading, but I imagine that helps you get your ideas. I imagine that authors do read to get ideas on how to describe something, or explain it…etc. I am a bad description writer, I admit it, and by reading the way other authors describe, I hope to improve that area of my writing.
Really nice post, I totally agree with Susan here :)
Thanks so much for your comment and compliment!