Author’s Writing StyleWriting Styles and why this matters!

What is style? Definition: the manner of expression of

a particular writer produced by: choice of words, sentence structures, use of literary devices, rhythm, and other elements of composition

Many writers have their own particular style This is chosen by the author with a

purpose depending on the audience

What is a vignette? Definition: a short, well-written sketch or

descriptive scene It does not have a plot, which would make

it a story, but it does reveal something about the elements in it

It may reveal character, or mood, or tone It may have a theme or idea of its own that

it wants to convey It is the description of the scene or

character that is important

Mood and Tone Mood is the atmosphere of a piece of

writing; it’s the emotions a selection arouses in a reader.

Tone is the author’s attitude on a subject or idea

Why do authors write?? Every piece of writing has a reason for

being in existence…that reason is the author’s purpose.

Remembering the main purposes for writing is as easy as PIE To Persuade, to Inform, to Entertain…but

remember, sometimes it is a combination of these and the purpose is not usually directly stated.

Persuade, Inform, Entertain? The author’s goal is to enlighten the reader about

real world topics and provide facts on those topics. Facts are not used to support an opinion…

The author’s goal is to convince the reader to think about something differently or in the way the author thinks about things. pushing an opinion…

The author’s goal is to tell the reader a story or describe real or imaginary characters, places, and events…there may be an opinion in there but it is not clearly stated!

Superman and Me What is the purpose of this essay? What is significant about the writing

style used for this essay? Be Specific What is Superman doing in the comic

book panel Alexie remembers? Why is it important to remember this detail at the very end of the essay?

What is the overall message of this essay?

Purpose (cont.) Depending on the author’s purpose,

authors may choose different types of formats, vernacular (language), and genres.

Short stories are written for many different reasons depending on the author and his/her purpose! We will explore many different kinds!

What is a short story? a brief work of fiction meant to be read in

one sitting and containing a plot, conflict, character(s), setting, symbols, and theme.

Combines objective matter-of-fact description with poetic atmosphere

Can be considered “Slice-of-life” stories giving a reader a snapshot and very little development

Leaves the reader with a vivid sensation rather than a number of remembered facts.

Literary elements When writing a short story, authors

need to be descriptive so they use different literary devices… Symbolism, imagery, irony,

personification, metaphor, simile, hyperbole…

Examples: “The Masque of the Red Death”, “The Ransom of Red Chief”, “The Lady, or The Tiger?”, or “The Lottery”