Tips for Precise Storytelling: Discovering Your Voice

After the three-day bike tour up to Red Meadow Pass and down to Glacier National Park and back to Whitefish, we grabbed ice cream at a hokey spot. This place had plastic pinwheels and sparklers stuck in milkshakes. It was just before the Fourth of July, after all. A table full of kids ordered milkshakes. The server took his time assembling them. There were many layers in these diabetes mason jars. He brought them to the table and lit the sparklers with a torch.

The room filled with the smell of melting plastic. The pinwheels caught fire. The server patiently slapped the hot, melted plastic with his gloved hand as it dripped onto the table. He patted it while softly saying, "out, out" under his breath, trying to calm the still-flaming blobs. The grandmother clapped her hands and laughed maniacally as the kids jumped in their chairs with glee.

Jaimie had already stepped outside. When Melinda and I finished our cones, Melinda headed to the bathroom. I joined Jaimie in the sunshine and the less toxic air. We started a conversation about communication styles. She gave me a compliment I never expected, especially from her: I am a very quick and precise communicator. She also said I clearly have many thoughts in my head. I imagined picking specific apples from a tree made of wind.

Understanding Communication Styles

I thank my dysgraphia and ADHD for that. I think they show up in my writing as well. These challenges make writing sometimes painful and sometimes glorious. For those whose brains are less broken, here are a few tips on precision in storytelling. These tips come from someone who learned this skill the hard way. A friend's dad made fun of me as a child for having a learning disability. I had to learn how to be quick and clear despite the hurricane tree that was my young mind.

If you want to improve your storytelling, focus on being precise. For example, if you have one chance to say something, make it correct. Take a moment to find not just the right word, but the right feeling. We often rely on the first words that come to mind. As a result, we only use a fraction of the wealth of language we possess. You might want to say you "like" something. But it’s worthwhile to dig deeper. Consider what that feeling truly means.

The Power of Specificity

If you want to express your feelings accurately, get specific. You may want to say you like the color blue. But is it truly just "like"? Why does that shade resonate with you? Instead of simply saying, “I like blue,” you could say, “Astronaut Blue, a deep shade, reminds me of summer days on a boat with family.” This not only conveys your preference but also paints a vivid picture.

When you can, avoid vague words. If you say "blue," it leaves room for interpretation. The ocean can evoke different shades as easily as the sky at dawn. Two people might envision entirely different colors. Instead, when you share a color, pair it with a memory or emotion. That clarity enriches your writing and connects you with your audience.

Avoiding Lazy Language

Words like "good," "bad," "like," or "nice" are vague. They often dilute powerful emotions. If a character has just experienced a series of mishaps and they finally reach home, how did they feel? If you say they "walked home," the feeling is lost. Instead, use action verbs that evoke emotion. Did they skip? Did they sulk? Each of these verbs tells a story. They share a sense of anticipation, relief, or exhaustion.

By using precise language, you let your readers understand the situation fully. You don’t need to explain every emotion. Your choice of words can show the depth of feelings without explicitly stating them. The images they create allow readers to imagine the scene vividly.

Encouragement for Aspiring Writers

Are you looking for more guidance to make your writing stronger? You do not have to navigate this journey alone. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to convey. Is there a story within you waiting to be told? Consider scheduling a free introductory call with me today for actionable strategies. Together, we can identify ways to enhance your writing and help you get published.

By embracing precision in your storytelling, you will captivate your readers. Transform your writing into something they cannot put down. It’s time to unleash your voice!