Everyone talks about finding your “author’s voice,” but what does that really mean—and how do you actually develop it? In this video, I share insights from industry professionals and break down the essential truth: your voice is already there, waiting to be unleashed on the page. You’ll discover why emotional honesty matters more than perfect technique, and learn practical ways to peel away the layers that might be holding your authentic voice back.
I hear a lot about an author’s voice. What’s voice? It’s a good question.
What is it and how do you develop it? Well, let’s start with how to develop it. Get out of your own way, write as you write, let it rip, write raw, tell emotional truth. You know, my sense is that people are hungry for the truth. If you tell it to them on an emotional, visceral level, they’ll beat a path to your door.
Here is what Rachelle Gardner, a literary agent, says about voice. Your writer’s voice is the expression of you on the page. It’s that simple and that complicated. Your voice is all about honesty. It’s the unfettered, non-derivative, unique conglomeration of your thoughts, feelings, passions, dreams, beliefs, fears, and attitudes, coming through in every word you write.
It’s a process of peeling away the layers of your false self. You’re trying to be something you’re not self, you’re copycat self. You’re trying to sound a certain way self.
You’re spent by life watching television self.
Here’s what Jackson Howard, an acquiring editor at Farrar, Straus and Giroux said. It’s what differentiates you from other writers. It’s your unique perspective. It’s originality delivered with confidence. You have a voice. Now we just have to get it down on the page. What’s your experience been with this?
I read all the comments. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you found your voice yet?
Are you still navigating your way? If this tip had value for you, would you like it?
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Thank you.
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