Can I Break the Writing Rules?
Go Your Own Way
It's surprising how often I receive messages from clients seeking clarification on what their other editors or creative writing teachers have told them.
It's important to be cautious in these situations; the last thing I want is to start a debate about what makes up right and wrong in fiction writing. There are no strict guidelines most times, and nobody has all the answers. Rules change according to usage and fashion.
It's great that English is in a constant state of flux.
English teachers will often go on and on about their personal preferences as if they were hard and fast rules. That’s okay; it’s part of being human.
This can be confusing for those new to the language, who may think there is always one “correct” way to do things. These "rules" can change.
With grammar and spelling, there are certain guidelines. But many times, there are also multiple valid solutions.
The beginner writer must take the time to learn the rules of the craft. But eventually, one comes to understand that they should break those same rules, and often.
Experimentation and adaptation are crucial in writing. I remember opening a library copy of The Great Gatsby where someone had crossed out (what they thought were) too many adverbs with a thick black pencil. Arrows pointed out what they perceived as dangling participles and other errors.
I noticed the person filled the margins of the book with edits and suggested improvements. This person may struggle to write even a grocery list properly, so relentless was their pursuit of perfection.
Of course, typos can jar, but as a writer, you must sometimes break these rules for artistic effect or to emphasize the limitations of language. There's nothing wrong with creating your own words. This is a longstanding literary tradition; Shakespeare did it, James Joyce did it, and even Stephen King often uses 'insectile.' You might not find it in any dictionary, but you know what it means when you hear it, don't you?
Once you identify as a writer and take the time to learn the rules, you are free to make your own decisions. Words are your resources. You're the artisan and can use them however you wish. It's not just words; there are plenty of theories about how to write plots and prose. Some mentors can be quite strict on matters like when scene, setting, descriptions, and internal monologue should appear in stories. When certain events can or cannot occur.
Many instructors have their favorite texts, from classic authors to cite as examples. Don't allow them to influence you; Poorly written fiction is never acceptable, but a fresh voice with the occasional misstep can be a delight to read.
Writing isn't static; it's ever-changing. Aspiring authors should treat writing as an ongoing learning experience. If authors want their work to be engaging, thought-provoking, and meaningful, it should feel as liberating and inspiring as life itself.
Eric Myers
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