We’re going to wrap up our chapter on editing with a lesson that I’ve titled “Building Your Writing House.” It will provide a great refresher as we wrap up our teaching. A home (book) built on a solid foundation will stand the test of time, after all.
Let’s start building!
THE ENTRY WAY: ENTICEMENT AND INVITATION
As you think about your work in progress, I’d like you to picture a house – a beautiful new home, with meticulously landscaped yard and captivating architecture. Picture yourself approaching that unfamiliar home for the very first time. The door, large and elegantly carved, bids you to enter. Though this isn’t your home, you discover that door is unlocked and dare to press it open.
With curiosity aroused, you step over the threshold into a grand, sweeping entry way filled with beautiful décor. You are immediately drawn to the home, aren’t you? Of course! A lovely entry way encourages you to come on in – and part of the mystery is having no clue what lies on the other side of that door.
The same is true with our writing. Imagine the opening line of your WIP (work in progress) to be just as important as a home’s entryway: After all, this is the way you first come across to your reader. Do you “hook” the reader with your opening line? Do you catch her attention right away? Does she want to “come on in” and read more? Remember – while you can’t judge a book by its cover, you CAN often judge it by its opening page (or its title).
Things to Consider:
- The reader will naturally approach a new book tentatively. The book doesn’t “belong” to the reader yet.
- The title is more important than the opening line.
- The book’s cover and binding have to evoke curiosity.
- Once the reader has “opened the door” they will make a fast decision to stay or to go.
There must be something “sweeping” about the book right away. - What are some things you can do to draw people in?
- Once they’re in, how can you get them to stay?
- Have you ever given up on a book after only a page or two? Why? What caused you to stop reading?
A book’s opening is critical. Whether you’re stepping into a beautiful home or opening the pages of a great book, you only get one chance to make a great first impression!
