What Makes "Good" and "Bad" Writing? - Introduction

This blog series is geared more toward those who write other types of works that aren’t stories or poems. Stories are different beasts, because their nature is geared around objectivity or fiction, or nonfiction and fact. This message is geared more toward “opinional” writers. But, I hope incorporating some of these elements into a story, or in life, can help to be a guide in the right direction if it speaks to you as a story writer or as a person.

Believe it or not, there is such a thing as “good” and “bad” writing. Before we can go into their characteristics, I first want to define what I mean by “good” and “bad” writing. Anne Frank once said, “Everyone inside them has a piece of good news.” I personally believe that many people from generation to generation will one day need to hear the good news each one of us has to share. If we don’t share it, someone may miss out on a positive impact in their lives. I determine “good” writing as words that will place people in a positive mindset and bring encouragement. “Bad” writing is defined as negative criticism that is designed to harm rather than help someone. I believe criticism can be useful on a level that is intended to help someone, but there is a sense of professionalism and positive thread within said criticism that should be observed.

Admitting to mankind’s weakness, I will be the first to reveal the truth – it’s hard to be positive when you’ve had such a negative experience with someone or something. Most people find it hard to recall good memories or experiences over bad ones, but it is a lesson that will serve our lives and the lives of those around us very well. Being considerate of others is slowly becoming obsolete in today’s society – it’s all about “Me, me me!”

So, in order to take the step into selflessness, I usually have to do three things: Take a step back before my emotions get the better if me, think of what it is like in their shoes and how I would feel if the roles were reversed, then go against everything my “inner” self is shouting at me to do and do what’s right. The more often you follow this strategy, the lower the voice telling you to only think about yourself will become, until it’s almost second nature to you to be considerate. It means more work, but when you have compassion on mankind and think of others before you consider yourself, that extra mile will be worth it. Someone needs your bit of good news, and sometimes you have to look beyond your wants and wishes in order to spread the good news. This month, we will cover how to hone your skills in "good" writing.