On Writing Well
The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction
By William K. Zinsser
Read by William K. Zinsser

      Perfectly updated, Zinsser’s book on writing well reminds us of what’s important in being an effective writer. This isn’t about fiction, but nonfiction. In two days, I’ve listened to this audio tape four times. The simplicity of Zinsser’s advice is refreshing.

      When I pick up a pen, I always remind myself to keep it simple and say it in as few words a possible. That’s pretty much Zinsser’s advice. He also believes one who thinks clearly should be able to write clearly. Words are tools. Learn to use the language (tool) “simply and warmly” and you can write, too. He also warns that writing is not easy. A good writer writes and rewrites. Zinsser reminds us that writing is not a contest between writers, but a transaction between the writer and the reader.

‘”My four principles are: Clarity, Simplicity, Brevity and Humanity. If you keep those four principles in mind, there’s almost nothing you can’t do.”

      Zinsser goes over the four principles and more. Each subject is to the point--as Zinsser’s says, “Life is too short.”

     One of Zinsser’s examples is how those higher in education or the work force are more suspicious of simplicity. How true is this? I’ve read the long, billowy test or paper written to impress, instead of inform. And how about the review, column, or magazine article that waxed so eloquently the message got lost in translation? In my humble opinion, keeping it simple and considering all level of readers is very important when writing. It’s refreshing to “finally” see an English professor with the same thoughts.

      Zinsser gives his readers plenty of wisdom--too much to put in one review. Any writer who takes his own work seriously and wants others to as well should buy the book or audio tape and keep it handy.