Voice has been defined as a collection of devices used consistently to create the illusioin of a person speaking through the text. But how do you find your unique writer’s voice?
Here are some of those devices you can utilize:
- Level of diction – probably the first thing a reader notices. This is basically the educational level of the piece. You can write in high, medium, or low diction. Medium is normal speech, conversational language. Diction level helps the reader figure out if they’re going to understand the piece or not.
- Formality of grammar and word usage – more formal can give you a sense of sophistication, but also of distance, which might not be what you’re after.
- Sentence clarity and length – varying the length of your sentences can create spaces in the text. Readers are generally intimidated by a page full of long, complicated sentences. Clarity is also key, as your writing should be simple to understand (unless you’re going for that academic abstract or literary piece).
- Verb usage – active verbs are graphic and specific, while passive verbs can dilute your voice. One oddity in American conversational speech, however, is that we use a lot of linking verbs (“to be”), which normally weaken the voice, but can create a conversational feel.
- Repitition of words, phrases, or images – this can create meaning by tying things together for the reader, making them stick out in their memory. Don’t use repetition too much, however, or it becomes obvious.
- Rhythm and flow – this is the beat of your language, how the words lead from one to another. Smooth rhythms create a sense of order and unity, while jerky rhythms make you sound disorganized and a little out of control.
- References and imagery – referencing things outside of your story can create a sense of depth. You can also use certain groupings of images to create a “signature” in your voice.
- Slang, dialect, and archaic language – slang can make your piece sound conversational, but jargon can create distance between you and your reader. Dialect can also distance you, as it is sometimes seen as a sign that you can’t speak the language properly.
- Wit, humor, and enthusiasm – the sophistication of your humor can elevate or deflate your writing, but don’t make humor part of your voice unless it’s natural . Enthusiasm for your subject engages your readers.
