For my entries in the 2012 A to Z Challenge, I will be focusing on
writing elements that I find important and that I want to incorporate into my
work.
Today, the topic is QUIRK.
In this month-long blogathon, I’ve been itemizing these
things I want to achieve in my writing. I’ve talked about how important character is
to me, about the need for tension and conflict, the use of dialogue, the vital
importance of a compelling plot, and many more subjects.
All this is true, but there’s also something else I want to
include, even in my most ‘serious’ writing.
It’s not at the level of plot or character in terms of importance -- and
it’s best used sparingly -- but I think my writing is better for having it in
there.
It’s just a dash of quirkiness.
Maybe it’s because I’m a smart-ass at heart, have a hopelessly
warped sense of humor, watched entirely too much Monty Python’s Flying Circus
during my formative years, or just plain failed to completely grow up, but I
like a bit of irreverence in my work. I
think just a hint of slightly-skewed silliness can add that stick-to-you element
that moves my stories from the mundane to the memorable.
A bizarre character trait; an odd setting; an outlandish sequence
of events; or a weird and unexpected plot twist can be just the thing to add
that right amount of smirk to a story.
Although, like I said, it takes just a dab. I don’t want my work to careen headlong into buffoonery
and farce. Well, at least not EVERYTHING I write. So, like a potent spice, it’s best to
sprinkle lightly.
But even the deepest, darkest, and most desperate tragedy
can benefit from a corpse with a twinkle in his eye, don’t you think?
Thanks for visiting -- see you the rest of this month for more alphabetical fun!
Don't forget to visit HERE to see all the bloggers taking
part in this A-to-Z challenge, and try to drop in on as many of them as you
can!
8 comments:
Fun post - and your word is so close to mine!
Yes! In all my favorite stories, the author has added at least one little detail or twist that makes the story all their own - something I never would have thought of, but immediately wish I had. A dash of quirk is always welcome. :)
I'm totally with you. I love my quirky characters. I'm not sure I can write very well without adding a little slightly-skewed something.
I've always liked this word. lol. I think we all want something 'quirky' about our characters that makes them more likable! :)
I think we all let a little quirkiness show through our individual voice in stories. :)
It's always good tohave goals, Chris, and these blog posts are a good way to organize them...good job! Stopping by from the Challenge...
MakingTheWriteConnections
Quirkiness makes a character likable and human. It's a great thing.
@Simon: Yeah -- "Quark, Quirk." Sounds like a duck with a mouth full of peanut butter... ;^)
@jessica: I agree, wholeheartedly!
@Tonja: Absolutely -- me too!
@Ashley: Very true. Or if not more likable, then at least more memorable. ;^)
@Nicole: Yep. I'm surely guilty of it, lol!
@Jarm: Thank you very much for the visit and best of luck A-to-Zing!
@Jessica: I definitely agree!
To all: Thank you so much for taking the time to visit and comment! I greatly appreciate it!
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