writing rules: ditch the hoopdedoodle

Elmore leonard: a literary influence

Elmore Leonard, a master of the detective and mystery genre, profoundly impacted my writing. Known for his unforgettable characters and sharp dialogue, Leonard’s work transcended mere storytelling. Many recognize him through film adaptations like Get Shorty and The 3:10 to Yuma. His ability to craft realistic and compelling dialogue was exceptional, a skill cultivated by carefully observing and accurately replicating how people truly speak. I owe him a great deal, learning invaluable lessons through his example.

What is 'hoopededoodle'?

Leonard had a unique term for unnecessary embellishments and clutter that novice writers often introduce into their narratives: hoopededoodle. He considered it detrimental, even fatal, to a work of fiction. It represents everything that distracts from the core story and characters. Avoiding the hoopededoodle is crucial for creating a streamlined and impactful reading experience. Think of it as the literary equivalent of unnecessary noise – it needs to be eliminated.

Leonard's 10 rules of writing

Responding to requests from aspiring writers, Leonard distilled his wisdom into 10 Rules of Writing. These rules offer practical guidance on how to avoid the pitfalls of overwriting and create a more compelling narrative. They’re a testament to his belief in clarity, conciseness, and authenticity. Let's explore these rules, which offer a clear path to improved writing.

• Never open a book with weather.
• Avoid prologues.
• Never use a verb other than “said” to carry dialogue.
• Never use an adverb to modify the verb “said.”
• Keep your exclamation points under control (limit to two or three per 100,000 words).
• Never use the words “suddenly” or “all hell broke loose.”
• Use regional dialect, patois, sparingly.
• Avoid detailed descriptions of characters.
• Don’t go into great detail describing places and things.
• Try to leave out the part that readers tend to skip.

The core principle: rewrite it!

Leonard's most crucial rule encapsulates the entire philosophy: “If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.” This underscores his commitment to a natural and unforced narrative voice. The goal is to create a story that reads effortlessly, as if it's unfolding organically. This rule encourages constant revision and refinement, ensuring the final product is as clean and impactful as possible.

Further exploration

For a more detailed examination of Leonard's writing rules and their implications, consider reading the New York Times article. It provides valuable insights into his approach to writing and offers practical advice for aspiring authors. Understanding and applying these principles can significantly elevate one's writing.