Finding Your Unique Voice: The Importance of Authorial Authenticity

I recently finished a book that felt like it was built from different books or cartoons—a peculiar blend of Alice in Wonderland, Scooby-Doo, and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. It featured a black Maine Coon named Cheshire, three friends named Billy, Sam, and Charlotte who mirrored the characters from Scooby-Doo, and elements of science fiction interwoven with the whimsical and mysterious. However, despite these intriguing elements, the book lacked a crucial component: the author's voice.

Defining the Author’s Voice

An author's voice is the unique way a writer reintroduces old concepts, giving them a fresh perspective that aligns with the cohesive mood of the story. It serves as the binding force that keeps the narrative together without being overly visible. A strong authorial voice doesn't try too hard to make characters likable or defend their actions; it allows the characters to be themselves, flaws and all.

Why Author's Voice Matters

In some of the best books I've read, even when they borrow ideas from other works, they reimagine them with such originality that they feel new. The author’s voice breathes life into these concepts, making them resonate with readers. It's this voice that ensures the story feels unified and genuine.

Take, for example, the epic fantasy author I'm currently working with. Her portrayal of war is so authentic and detailed that you feel as though you’re right there with the characters. Her voice is strong and memorable, providing an immersive experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished the book.

My Journey to Finding My Voice

For three years, I struggled to understand what my own authorial voice was. I knew my strengths lay in creating tension and selecting the perfect scenes and locations to drive the plot forward. However, I also knew my weaknesses, like building romance and writing flirtatious dialogue. Recognizing these strengths and weaknesses has helped me craft better stories and seek out critique partners who can help shore up my weaknesses.

Tips for Developing Your Voice

Experiment: Play around with different styles, perspectives, and themes. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Understand what you’re good at and where you need improvement. This self-awareness will guide your growth as a writer.

Authenticity: Let your characters be true to themselves. Avoid smoothing over their rough edges to make them more likable.

Learn from Others: Study authors with strong voices and see how they handle narrative and character development.

Encouraging Authenticity and Experimentation

I want readers of this blog to understand the importance of an author’s voice and the authenticity it brings to a story. Embrace the process of experimenting with your writing. Find what intrigues you, and play to your strengths while working on your weaknesses.

Remember, the journey to finding your unique voice is personal and ongoing. It's about bringing a piece of yourself into your writing and letting your characters and narrative be true reflections of your vision.

Conclusion

Understanding and developing your authorial voice is key to creating memorable and cohesive stories. It’s a journey that requires experimentation, self-awareness, and authenticity. Embrace your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and let your voice shine through every word you write.