Voice...What is it? How to define it. Wikipedia defines it as "the individual writing style of an author, a combination of idiotypical usage of syntax, diction, punctuation, character development, dialogue, etc., within a given body of text." Huh? Basically an author's unique style of writing. A beginning writer could take class after class and still never really identify their voice or make it unique enough to capture someone's attention. I'm still trying to find mine or at least trying to convey it the way I want and feel comfortable with.
I feel restrained, like it's there just waiting to come out, and I need to let it. I need to let it be natural, just as my vocal voice would be talking to a loved one or a friend I've known for years. We all use different vocal voice for different audiences and occasions. With my boss, I use one voice. With my best friend, I use another. If I could let loose and use my best friend voice in my writing, I think I would have it. I think.
How do I accomplish this? Practice. I tell my kids all the time, "School is like practice for life. The more you practice the better you get at it." Every time I write, I like to think I become a little more comfortable, like with a good friend. The more comfortable I get, the more my voice will flow. Practice makes perfect. At least I hope so.
Four years into my writing life, I'm still finding my voice. Still practicing.
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