Crafting Fiction: The Art of Concise Expression
by Olivia Salter
Thomas Jefferson’s timeless quote, “The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do,” resonates deeply with writers, especially those in the realm of fiction. Let’s explore how this principle applies to the craft of storytelling.
1. Economy of Language
In fiction, every word matters. Authors strive to create vivid worlds, complex characters, and gripping plots within a limited word count. Just as Jefferson advocated for concise expression, writers must choose their words judiciously. Here’s how:
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Trim Excess: Eliminate redundancies and unnecessary adjectives. Instead of saying, “The moon was shining brightly,” opt for “The moon gleamed.” The latter conveys the same image with fewer words.
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Show, Don’t Tell: Rather than explicitly stating emotions or details, show them through actions, dialogue, and sensory descriptions. For instance, instead of saying, “She was nervous,” describe her trembling hands or darting eyes.
2. Impactful Dialogue
Dialogue is a powerful tool in fiction. It reveals character personalities, motivations, and conflicts. Jefferson’s advice applies here too:
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Subtext: Dialogue often carries hidden meanings. Characters may say one thing while implying another. Craft sharp, succinct lines that resonate beyond their literal interpretation.
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Avoid Exposition: Resist the urge to explain everything through dialogue. Trust readers to infer information. A single well-chosen line can convey backstory or foreshadowing.
3. Hemingway’s Influence
Ernest Hemingway, known for his minimalist style, embodied Jefferson’s philosophy. His sparse prose evoked powerful emotions. Consider his famous six-word story: “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.” In those few words, an entire narrative unfolds.
4. Editing Mastery
Jefferson’s talent lies not only in initial expression but also in revision. Apply these editing principles:
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Kill Your Darlings: Be willing to cut beloved passages if they don’t serve the story. Prioritize clarity and impact over sentimentality.
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Read Aloud: Listen to your sentences. If any feel cumbersome, rephrase them. Smooth, rhythmic prose engages readers.
