On Writing Well

William Zinsser’s On Writing Well is nothing short of a writer’s bible and a book every writer should own. Insisting that “rewriting is the essence of writing,” he sets out to unclutter the process with the caveat “...truth needs no adornment and...writers who overexplain their material are doing considerable damage.” The principles of part I provide a good foundation:

The Transaction

Acknowledges there are a world of differences in the way people go about their writing, but always “...good writing has an aliveness that keeps the reader reading...” Good writing has humanity and warmth, no matter the topic. “It’s a question of using the English language in a way that will achieve the greatest strength...”

Simplicity

Summed up best by asking “What am I trying to say?” and “Have I said it?” We writers have a history of overstating what should be simple and clear. Maybe we are trying to sound important or make something longer to satisfy a teacher’s requirement. Whatever the case, clear thinking is the key to clear writing.

Clutter

The goal is to take out words that serve no purpose, i.e., don’t say “at the present time,” say “now.” This includes jargon and buzzwords. Express thoughts with economy. Enough said.

Style

We must not put on airs. So many of us write as though we have a stilted accent. Zinsser insists that style does shine through, but in carpenter’s terms, a piece must be stripped down to its sturdiest essential foundation. Beveled edges and finials may be added later. This is the art of rewrite, and “...good writers are always visible just behind their words.”

The Audience

Question: Who are you writing for?
Answer: Yourself

Words

Avoid the trite, the cliché, the journalese. Words are tools that must be used with “...originality and care.” Befriend your dictionary.

Usage

Explains the backstory on our evolving language.

While this guide is touted as a classic in crafting non-fiction, the principles hold up to virtually any form of writing. Whether I’m teaching language arts or applying these standards to my own writing, Zinsser’s book is golden.