Lesson 38. Reader Sensitivity│The Mechanics of Fiction Writing

Understanding Reader Sensitivity in Writing

Introduction to Reader Sensitivity

• The concept of reader sensitivity is introduced, stemming from an obscure book titled How to Write Like a Pro by Barry Tarshis, a freelance magazine writer.

• Despite the author's lack of literary fame compared to figures like Joan Didion or Don DeLillo, his insights on reader sensitivity are deemed valuable and relevant.

Importance of Reader Sensitivity

• The speaker emphasizes that reader sensitivity is not intuitive for all writers; it can be learned and is essential for engaging readers effectively.

• Writer's role likened to leading a dance; understanding the reader's perspective is crucial for maintaining their interest and engagement.

Defining Reader Sensitivity

• Tarshis defines reader sensitivity as an ongoing awareness of how readers process and react to writing, requiring writers to anticipate readers' thoughts.

• Key aspects include recognizing when clarity is lacking, anticipating questions from readers, and knowing when additional details are necessary.

The Social Nature of Writing

• Writing is described as a social act akin to conversation; writers must check for understanding just as speakers do in dialogue.

• Writers need to develop an awareness of how average readers will follow their narrative flow at the sentence level.

Example of Effective Reader Sensitivity

• Norman Maclean’s writing about fly fishing illustrates effective reader sensitivity through controlled thought progression that keeps the reader engaged.

• Maclean anticipates potential questions from the reader and addresses them promptly within his narrative structure.

Conclusion: Learning Reader Sensitivity

• Some writers possess innate reader sensitivity while others must learn it; this skill parallels giving clear directions before GPS technology became prevalent.

Understanding Reader Sensitivity in Writing

The Importance of Addressing Reader Questions

• The speaker illustrates how a paragraph can lack reader engagement if it fails to address the questions raised by the text, using an example that diverges from the main point.

• While the example contains grammatically correct sentences, it lacks coherence and reader sensitivity, leading to disconnection from the audience's focus.

Focusing on Reader's Mindset

• Tarshis emphasizes that understanding where a reader's attention lies at the end of each sentence is crucial for effective writing.

• Transitioning smoothly between ideas is likened to passing a baton in a relay race; maintaining focus helps guide readers through new concepts without confusion.

Maintaining Flow and Connection

• When discussing tough fish in a canyon, subsequent sentences should logically connect back to this idea, enhancing clarity and engagement for the reader.

• Abrupt shifts in topic are compared to jerking a dance partner unexpectedly; such actions can lead to frustration and disengagement.

Developing Reader Sensitivity

• The discussion introduces reader sensitivity as an ongoing theme throughout lessons on writing, suggesting that some writers may need more guidance than others.