Write to a person, not an audience
- Wed, August 10 2011
- Filed under: Writing
I once heard Elizabeth Gilbert speak, and she said a key to her work is writing is to an audience of one—whom she knows. When she writes with a particular person in mind, it makes her writing stronger.
I think this is great advice for anyone - including us.
Whether you are writing an appeal or a grant proposal or a call to action—or a novel—write with one person in mind. Name that person, describe that person and connect with that person with your words.
It’s a great trick for avoiding the dreaded audience of “the general public” and the lifeless, writing-by-committee messaging that will result.
cartoon
Comments
Great advice and wonderful cartoon! I’ve seen a lot of great ideas watered down beyond recognition by committee editing. Lori @ Wild Apricot blog.