Your Voice Matters

3 tips for preserving what sounds like you in your writing

I’ve talked about this before on my podcast with teacher bestie Sarah.

The writing biz uses the word “voice” to capture everything that makes your story distinctly yours. And unfortunately, too often that’s the thing writers feel is under attack when they work with an editor.

Let’s be clear about one thing: you should never stick with an editor if you feel like they’re the wrong fit for you as a person or the success of your words.

But just in case you need a bigger reminder, here are 3 tips for preserving the “you” factor of your writing. Because the voice in your story matters!

Pay attention to your word choice

There’s a difference between a house and a shack for a reason. If you end up with an editor who’s focused most on making your story sound right, the first thing to go is usually your words.

I challenge any writer to look for an editor who helps you find the holes in your story. Make sure they’re encouraging your work to grow, not to be correct.

Pay attention to your structure

YA author Jason Reynolds is a great example of just how much an author can play with structure while telling a story. I should know - I just taught one of his novels to a whole bunch of high school sophomores.

But everything from the font to the spacing to the use of time in your story can be crucial to the voice of your work. Be intentional with the layout of your writing - and don’t back down when an editor tries to project their vision onto you.

Pay attention to your themes

Sarah and I talked about this one a lot when we addressed voice in the 2023 film Wonka.

Especially once you’ve found your lane as a writer, you tend to revisit the same lessons and core ideas in your work. And if an editor is trying to change the message of your story to better fit their ideas, they’re not worth your time.

You are your story’s first advocate. Don’t be afraid to stand up for what you know is right for your words.

Want to learn more about how we could work together? Check out Fly Dry Editing today!