There is a way to write creatively, using common words but creating a different meaning for each one. This process of figurative language can be applied to any style of writing and is a great way to build vocabulary. There are a few words and phrases you will need to learn in order to do this effectively, however, once you have them down pat, it is effortless to apply to any piece you want to complete.
Find The Theme
Before you start writing, it is important to establish the theme of your piece. This is the topic you will discuss throughout the entirety of your writing. When we think about a story, we often think about the events that occur throughout the piece. While this is an important part of storytelling, it is only one aspect. You can also use the theme to provide more depth to your character studies or to highlight a problem in today’s society that your piece addresses. For example, you could write a dystopian story about the future of the world and use the theme of conformity as your central focus. Or you could write about addiction and focus on the theme of identity.
Create A Plot
If you decide to use an established plot, make sure you follow it carefully. This will help you keep the flow of your story intact and create a more realistic piece. If your story does not have a clear plot, it can sometimes be tricky to determine exactly what happens in your narrative. This is why you should always try to use a story plot when you can. It will make your writing clearer and more concise while also giving the reader some sort of guidance through the story.
Determine The Size
In a creative writing course, your professor may give you an outline of what your story is going to be about and tell you how long it will be. Sometimes these timelines can be a little unrealistic. Even on an indie project, you should still know what the size of your story is. It is better to overestimate than to underestimate. If you think your story is going to be three pages, then it probably will be. However, if you think it will be fifteen pages, then it probably won’t be. Knowing how many pages you have is important so you don’t waste time writing extra material that will not be published. For an indie project, it is often a challenge to determine how many pages you have without having already published a book and then having to go via word of mouth to find the size of your story.
Use Common Phrases
In order to write creatively, you need to be able to describe the events of your story in a way that is new and interesting. One way to do this is to use common phrases in unique ways. Instead of using the traditional expression for a specific event in your narrative, you can take it a step further and use words and phrases that are specific to your theme. For example, if your story is about conformity, you can write about how people were made to feel as one while also discussing how their true identities were repressed. The point is that you should never be afraid to flex your imagination and use phrases and words that you have not before seen or heard.
Being able to write creatively is something that can be applied to any style of writing. However, as previously stated, it is most effective when used in combination with a story. If you want to be able to write creatively, make sure you take the time to learn how to do so. Once you have established the basics, it will be easier for you to apply to any piece you want to write. Good luck out there.