To my writing classes I used later to open by saying that anybody who could talk could also write. Having cheered them up with this easy-to-grasp ladder, I then replaced it with a huge and loathsome snake: “How many people in this class, would you say, can talk? I mean really talk?”
That had its duly woeful effect.
I don’t consider myself a great writer, but I typically say writing, if forced to state a strong suit. But perhaps that says more about my other abilities than my way with words.
In any case, I find Hitch’s quote above especially interesting. I’ve found that the best way to improve as a writer has been to improve the way that I talk. Lately I’ve tried to speak slower, more carefully, in more complete sentences. To speak in full ideas, not just phrases.
I don’t know if it’s really working yet. Too soon to tell, at any rate.
But I enjoy it. And if you are trying to become a better writer, I recommend giving it a try.
It certainly couldn’t hurt, at least.
