Monday, January 3, 2011

The Parts To Leave Out

This week's writing quote is:

"I try to leave out the parts that people skip."
- Elmore Leonard

Such simple words. Well Duh! Right? But most of us are guilty of skipping over passages, even when we really love the book. As a writer, that's one of my biggest fears. Will I bore the reader? Will they skip this part?

So ask yourself: Is this really necessary? Does it move the plot along? Does it create conflict? Does it develop the character? Would the reader miss anything if you took it out?

No?

Then get rid of it!

(Is anyone still reading this post?)

Have I bored you yet?

Well, if you're still with me, go check out my website. I've got a special offer for The Write Planner going on now.

For the next two weeks they are on sale for just $12. 


That's only $1 per month to keep you focused on your writing!

Happy New Year Everyone!

Today's writing quote was taken from The Write Planner, a day planner designed for writers. To learn more about The Write Planner, click here.

3 comments:

amber_mtmc said...

Hey lady, I'm still reading. Even if I don't get to comment as much as I'd like. This is awesome, I know I skip over parts very often but never thought to edit out these parts from my own (untouched) manuscript.

Anonymous said...

I love the copy of Write Planner that I "won" through Michelle Teacress. I recommended it on my blog, and I do hope you get some response to the sale price. I LOVE the quotes in it! They alone are worth it!!

Cami Checketts said...

I always skim-read books. I actually have the opposite problem, I have to remember to include description and details. Who cares what color of eyes the hero has, right?