Writing Excuses 20.45: Now Go Write- Break All The Rules (Part 1)
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Nov 9, 2025 Explore the art of breaking writing rules! Discover when it’s beneficial to throw out classic guidelines and what fresh revelations can emerge. The hosts discuss the effective use of passive voice for mood and pacing, demonstrating how it can enhance storytelling. They also delve into the complexity of protagonists, emphasizing that inactivity can still drive interest through interior thoughts. Plus, a fun homework assignment encourages listeners to challenge their own writing conventions for growth!
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Use Passive Voice As A Deliberate Tool
- Use passive voice intentionally as a tool, not a criminal offence against prose.
- Employ it to depersonalize actions, hide the agent, or slow the narrative when needed.
Activity Level Is A Narrative Dial
- Passive constructions can change reader focus by shifting importance from actor to effect.
- Writers can treat activity level as a dial and vary it to control pacing and emphasis.
Hide The Agent To Heighten Surprise
- Use passive voice to conceal the agent when the reveal is the point of the sentence.
- Delay the noun reveal to heighten surprise and escalate tension in the line.