Emotional Punch

"...your writing lacks the degree of emotional punch

we need for this line..."

 

This is one of the most common reasons editors give when they reject manuscripts. Unfortunately, it's not an easy problem to solve, because to a certain extent, the emotional quality of writing depends on the writer's personality.

For some people, emotions are always bubbling close to the surface and feelings pour out easily when they write, but if this doesn't happen for you, don't give up. There are some practical approaches that might help you to pin down this elusive quality.

Let's start by analysing the term "emotional punch". It's tempting to concentrate on the first word and to think that if you've included plenty of beautifully described feelings you're on the right track. But think for a moment about the other word - the "punch" factor.

 

Read more...

 

---

Balancing Fantasy and Reality

Characters: Background and Baggage

Characterisation

The Joy of Sensuality

Outback Heroes - More than Cowboys Down Under

All articles copyright © Barbara Hannay, not to be reproduced without permission.

z

@yahoo.com

Read more about her in her Press Kit.

Home    |     History   |     Novels     |    Barb's Corner    |    Journal     |    Articles    |    Press Kit    |    Contact