How to Write Right, via the late Elmore Leonard

Prolific and iconic mystery writer Elmore Leonard, who died this week, once offered the following rules for writing in a 2001 article for the New York Times.   His cut-to-the-bone suggestions help explain why his clipped, staccato voice -- not unlike some hard-edged detective talking out the side of his mouth -- translates so well to the screen, both big and small. 

(Not familiar?  Two can't-lose suggestions: "Get Shorty" and "Justified.")

His admonitions to avoid adverbs, hooptedoodle, exclamation points and anything other than forms of the verb "to say" could be well applied to journalism -- especially magazine writing.  Here's just a taste:

3. Never use a verb other than ''said'' to carry dialogue.

The line of dialogue belongs to the character; the verb is the writer sticking his nose in. But said is far less intrusive than grumbled, gasped, cautioned, lied. I once noticed Mary McCarthy ending a line of dialogue with ''she asseverated,'' and had to stop reading to get the dictionary. 

4. Never use an adverb to modify the verb ''said'' . . .

. . . he admonished gravely. To use an adverb this way (or almost any way) is a mortal sin. The writer is now exposing himself in earnest, using a word that distracts and can interrupt the rhythm of the exchange. I have a character in one of my books tell how she used to write historical romances ''full of rape and adverbs.''

Well worth keeping in mind... she said.  bk

(Photo credit: The Guardian)