Okay, so we know that by using our own life experiences and trolling our imaginations we can mix up a heady batch of super fun. But how does one go about developing a “style”? Well, basically, in my humble opinion, one doesn’t! Honestly, I believe a personal style will evolve naturally as a writer gains more experience. However, there are a few things that we can be aware of to help us get us there.
1) Lack of knowledge and skill is NOT style.
2) If you derive your work, it will be DERIVATIVE.
3) Use both the GUT and the HEAD.
Lack of knowledge and skill is NOT style.
I have often been asked for input on the writing and art of people who are hoping to break into comics. This is always a double-edged sword. On the one hand I critique many people who have great potential and seem to really listen to my advice. Conversely, there are also those who are light years away from being able to function professionally in any way. That’s tough. You want to be encouraging, but truthful, which often leads some people to become downright indignant. They balk when I don’t get up on the table and dance a jig of joy at the obvious beauty of their efforts.
I might proceed in this way: “Well, you have some good ideas here, and this character is kind of interesting, but your story lacks structure and clarity. Also, in some places I was confused about who was doing what, and why they were doing it… and, well, the spelling and grammar are kind of off…
That’s when it comes. The war cry of the writer who hasn’t learned his basics: “You just don’t get my style!”
At this point I usually sigh and hand them back their story and say something like: “I’m sure you’re right. Good luck with your career.” At one time I would try to convince them that writing is first about effective communication and that the basic skills of the writer are imperative to achieve that ease of communication. But, I no longer do this. It usually just leads to interminable debate and often anger and hurt feelings. So, I just let it go… it’s easier on my ulcers.
But I’ll say it here one time for the record. Knowing your basics, such as spelling, grammar, story structure, characterization, clarity and simplicity are key to the writing of a good story. You may have the greatest story idea since 2001 a Space Odyssey, but if people can’t read it and understand it, they’ll never get the point.
It’s harder than ever to get this across in our era of E-mail shorthand, and txt mssg cltur, but I believe it is essential.
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