Resources by Topic: Writing

Language is dynamic, not static. It’s always changing, and that’s why applying old rules to contemporary writing sometimes just doesn’t resonate. I’m thinking about this because the use of “whom” has come up several times recently in the editing of my blog posts and book manuscripts.

Years ago, I wrote a critique of the practice of ghostwriting in Christian publishing, which put me in multiple difficult discussions with publishers and ghostwriters alike. I also joined several dozen other Christian writers in signing a letter to our publishers expressing our ethical objections to ghostwriting.

I’ve been asked by readers over the years, “Why don’t you capitalize the pronouns referring to God in your books?”

Plagiarism is definitely a problem—sadly, even within parts of the Christian community. However, the talk about the serious sin of plagiarism has helped cultivate a suspicion that’s sometimes unhealthy. The following incident illustrates how easily an unintentional mistake can happen in the process of writing a book.

Over the years I’ve been asked my opinion about authors using pen names. My concern would be in two areas: intent and effect. 

We don’t have to feel badly about writing specifically to people who live in places and situations similar to us, but there is power in focusing on God’s Word and writing about how it applies to our lives, regardless of where and how we live.

Write only those books you are absolutely convinced God wants you to. Not just books that are good ideas, but ideas that you’re personally passionate about and fit your heart, convictions, wiring, and style, not someone else’s.

If God’s Word is daily at home in your heart and mind, your writing will take on a perspective, and an air of solidity and permanence it won’t have otherwise. 

From time to time, I’m reminded of how common it is for people to believe a writer or speaker stole his or her material. Sometimes material is indeed used word for word without crediting the source, and this is unethical. But other times, people assume an idea or material has been stolen when it isn't the case.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned over the years about writing (and rewriting) is that it’s hard work. It’s energizing and draining, something I love to do and hate to do, something that’s never done because I can always continue to improve on it, but eventually I have to turn it in. 

Question from an eleven-year-old reader: Do you have any suggestions about how many words I should write in a day? I generally get 300 to 900 words on a good day.

Why write different sized books on one subject? Because they’re designed to reach different audiences with varying interests and preferences. It’s my joy and privilege to write different books on different subjects for different people, meeting different needs.

Anything that’s easy to read is usually hard to write. What’s easy to write is hard to read. I heard one author say, “Writing is like giving birth to barbed wire.” Writing is 5% inspiration and 95% perspiration.

Randy Alcorn answers questions about spiritual influences on his writing.