Word Painting Revised Edition: The Fine Art of Writing Descriptively
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Publisher : Writer's Digest Books; Revised ed. edition (December 12, 2014)
Language : English
Paperback : 272 pages
ISBN-10 : 1599638681
ISBN-13 : 83
Item Weight : 13.6 ounces
Dimensions : 5.99 x 0.68 x 8.94 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #674,162 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #1,036 in Rhetoric (Books) #1,088 in Words, Language & Grammar Reference #1,169 in Authorship Reference
#1,036 in Rhetoric (Books):
#1,088 in Words, Language & Grammar Reference:
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Top Amazon Reviews
This book is an in-depth study of how to write an effective description. And there’s no single way of accomplishing the task. Though the author provides some basic “rules” such as avoiding filter words and passive sentences, most of the book takes a deeper look at descriptive writing, including but not limited to, how point of view impacts description, the use of simile and metaphor, establishing tone, and how to write active versus static passages. Numerous examples from well-known books illustrate each descriptive technique. This is not a quick read, but it is thorough, and a good “textbook” for the serious writer. At the end of each chapter are numbered suggestions for both broadening and pinpointing a writer’s observational skills and for practicing the techniques presented in the text. I read this as a kindle book, but with the advantage of hindsight, recommend the paperback version for writers intending to refer back to the text for ideas or practice at a later time.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2019 by D. W. Peach
This is the book that will help you find your style and voice as a writer. The author is so skilled at using words and getting the reader to dive deep when using description. The first chapter alone changed my life. She suggests you sit with an object for ten minutes to describe it. Look at it. Think about it. Think about what it means to you. Write about it with these thoughts in mind. Write it with a specific character's thoughts in mind. These are the kinds of activities at the ends of the chapters. This book will spark your imagination and give you plenty of exercises to enhance and grow your skills. I found out about this book when I entered a contest and a judge suggested it. Now I tell everyone about it.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2019 by Carol Alwood
My mouth watered when I found this book. The title sealed from the interest when I stumbled upon the title but it didn’t take long for me realize this may not have been what I thought. It was well written but filled with too much flowery language. I felt like she danced eloquently around the topics and there even came a point in time when I begged for the book to end. Again the author is brilliant however I felt this book would have been best served by just getting to the point.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 15, 2018 by Brandon M.
The first half a dozen chapters of the book are high quality content with a good amount of variety in exercises. There are some questionable bits of pseudoscientific nonsense about the lizard brain and whatnot, but those don’t get in the way of the book. Starting from chapter seven or eight (depending on how familiar the reader is with different POVs) the book loses a lot of forward momentum. What bothered me the most is the lack of variety and repetition of earlier exercises towards the end of the book. I got the impression the author felt an obligation to talk about prosody in the book, but did so inadequately. The last three or so chapters were a bit of a let down, but not exactly bad. Overall, this was a positive reading experience with lots of great exercises.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2021 by Telperion
I found this book after reading the author's flash non-fiction on Brevity--so beautifully written, prose flowing fluidly from scene to scene, and descriptions that moved and left impressions. I asked myself, Why can't I write like that? So I had very high expectations when I bought this book, and I must say it exceeded them all. The author is not only a great writer, she is also an excellent teacher. So far, this is the most helpful book I've ever read on writing.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2017 by The Crusader
Serious writers should read and re-read this book then refer to it often. One of the most informative books I've read about creative writing.
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2020 by Musesiac
I belong to a writer's group and this book was recommended to me by a very experienced writer. I've found it to be quite helpful.
Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2015 by Paula
If you’re a young author wanting to take your descriptions to the next level, look no further. I found Word Painting to be an excellent writing resource, not only as far instruction but for inspiration as well. This isn’t a “list book” or “word reference” filled with general descriptions…it's guide to bridge the gap between what we see and feel. From breaking down the parts of things, breathing life into your descriptions, using them to carry your story, igniting your senses, and stirring memories. The author includes plenty of exercises at the end of each chapter, all aimed at opening your eyes in a unique and refreshing way. Bravo, Ms. McClanahan…I’ve been searching for a book like this for a while.
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Reviewed in the United States on October 23, 2016 by Amazon Customer