The Elements of Style

The Elements of Style

1. Syntax

   • controls verbal pacing and focus
   • ExampleIncorrect - I gave him money I stole from the store. Correct - I gave him the money I stole from the store.
   • Imagery
     • visually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work.
     • The girl ran her hands on a soft satin fabric.

2. Diction

   • its the foundation of voice and contributes to all of its elements
   • “Is your writing as transparent as a mixture of comminuted particles of rock with water of varying consistency? Or is it as clear as mud?” (Graham Hopkins, The Write Stuff)

3. Tone

   • Gives voice its distinctive personality
   • “The movie was amazing! I was laughing so hard I cried!” Vs. “You can only watch infantile humor for so long before you want to punch yourself in the face.”

4. Detail

   • is used to develop a topic shaping and seasoning voice
   • The sunset filled the entire sky with the deep color of rubies, setting the clouds ablaze.