There are two schools of thought about Christmas newsletters we receive from friends and family. One group loves them, and the other dreads seeing them tucked inside glitter-frosted cards.
I enjoy them immensely.
Although the newsletters come quickly, like ants filing out of anthills, they are, for me, a way to catch up on the happenings of loved ones every year.
Many of my newsletter-loving friends are writers, making theirs especially enjoyable to read, as you can’t help but “hear” their writer’s voice. One author gives beautiful descriptions of her home’s Christmas finery as she does in her book’s settings. She writes cozy novels and her newsletter seems to be an extension of her character’s warm and fuzzy lifestyles. Another writer friend’s letter hits only the high spots of her family’s holiday festivities. It lacks warmth and it’s not fuzzy in the least, a reflection of her bare bones writing style.
For practice in discovering your voice, write a Christmas newsletter. Let the words flow; remember this is just a practice exercise. When you finish, read the letter with fresh eyes and see if you recognize your style. In one of my earlier columns I suggested you read your older diaries and journals; this is another opportunity to examine free writings for glimpses of your unique voice.
Do I send Christmas newsletters, you might ask? The answer is no, simply because I am usually wrapping gifts until a Santa sighting is broadcast over the evening news report. I did, however, join you in this attempt, and my style and voice was easily recognized among the descriptions of holiday wrappings, tree decorations and the aromas of family dishes passed down through generations.
I hope this was a pleasant way to unwrap your writer’s voice.
Praying your Christmas is blessed beyond measure and that you, dear writer, find peace and hope among the most beautiful words ever penned…”for unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11 (KJV)
We love helping your growing in your writing career.
7 Comments
Dee Dee, I pray that you have a wonderful Christmas season. I never thought of writing a Christmas letter to practice my voice. I might do that. Thank you.
Great idea! You are helping me to see the common thread in all of my writing. Thanks, Dee Dee. Have a blessed Christmas! (And I would love to read your Christmas letter) 🙂
Leigh Ann, pray you have a blessed Christmas. Thanks for the sweet comment.
Love this Dee Dee. A great writing exercise during the holidays. Celver and creative … Just like you! Thanks my friend.
Beth
Thank you, Beth… maybe I am clever and celver! 🙂
Sorry Dee Dee, you are clever not celver!!! Where is spell check when you need it???? HA!
Praying your Christmas is blessed, Cherrilynn. Thanks so much for commenting.