Very good, though I feel I see the “concrete over abstract” rule applied to strictly these days and much of modern prose gets mired in the particulars. By your own example, the right kind of abstraction, especially when used alongside the right concrete images, can be very powerful.
The line
“And I knew that you were a truth
I would rather lose
Than to have never lain beside at all” is very abstract. As is the line about plans “being a prayer to Father Time,” though to a lesser extent.
That poem stirred my senses and forced me to enter into the hospital room with him! Powerful words, praiseworthy writing... I love your essay. So informative, inspiring and encouraging! I hope to create more worthy words by hearing what you're saying. God bless you.
Love this! I’m Harrison, an ex fine dining industry line cook. My stack "The Secret Ingredient" adapts hit restaurant recipes (mostly NYC and L.A.) for easy home cooking. Dm me if interested in a recommendation swap — we’re growing fast!
Very good, though I feel I see the “concrete over abstract” rule applied to strictly these days and much of modern prose gets mired in the particulars. By your own example, the right kind of abstraction, especially when used alongside the right concrete images, can be very powerful.
The line
“And I knew that you were a truth
I would rather lose
Than to have never lain beside at all” is very abstract. As is the line about plans “being a prayer to Father Time,” though to a lesser extent.
Adam, great observations. I agree, any principle can be applied too liberally. Appreciate your perspective.
Love this, Will. Such a solid reminder that writing is about letting people feel it, not just understand it.
Awesome advice! I love the comparison you used with childhood show and tells. Haven’t thought about it that way.
Isaiah, glad it resonated!
Love this!
Thank you :)
That poem stirred my senses and forced me to enter into the hospital room with him! Powerful words, praiseworthy writing... I love your essay. So informative, inspiring and encouraging! I hope to create more worthy words by hearing what you're saying. God bless you.
Regina, wow, thank you. Keep writing :)
Wow! Great, bite-sized tips. This is great food for thought as I return to edit my book, which is in desperate need of more nouns and verbs…
Amanda, how exciting! Hope your book editing is fruitful :)
This is brilliant. Thanks for sharing.
Kind words, Blake. Have to say, though, there's so much wisdom on substack, so don't hold back from other voices ;)
Thanks Caroline. It reminds me of a mountain dew can and an omelette on a plate ;)
Nirmal, thanks for reading.
You have fine taste, friend.
A great reminder, Will, and I appreciate your friendly writing style. Whoever had you as their book editor is lucky to have you. Cheers!
This is so good. You’re officially the only voice on Substack I care to learn about writing from.
Love this! I’m Harrison, an ex fine dining industry line cook. My stack "The Secret Ingredient" adapts hit restaurant recipes (mostly NYC and L.A.) for easy home cooking. Dm me if interested in a recommendation swap — we’re growing fast!
check us out:
https://thesecretingredient.substack.com