I read an article in Writer’s Digest that said the best writing is that which is real, honest and true.  As I thought of some of my favorite authors, I realized that this is how I feel.  I want to read those who bare their soul even if it might not be pretty or tied neatly with a bow.  One author who tells it true is Anne Lamott.  Her book, Bird by Bird, sugarcoats nothing about the writing life.

On the other hand, I don’t want to read a piece that bleeds all over the page.  Often when we have just experienced something tragic we tend to write too closely to the agony.  Time gives it a little perspective, and I recommend letting your work gel a bit before showing it to the masses.  Refined prose speaks more true than that which has been splashed out there.

As you write from home in your office, or cubbyhole, kitchen table, or near the diaper pail, think about what constitutes honesty in writing.  Ask yourself:

• Is the voice mine or am I borrowing from someone else?
• How can I make my experiences get that reaction that I want?
• What am I most passionate about writing about?
• How do I convey what is in my heart onto paper?
• What can I do to make my writing more genuine, more honest?

And above all, keep being creative!

Until next time,

~ Alice

Alice J. Wisler writes inspirational fiction from her home in Durham, NC.  She’s the author of RAIN SONG, HOW SWEET IT IS, HATTERAS GIRL and A WEDDING INVITATION. She also teaches grief-writing workshops both online and at conferences.