THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE is a remarkable thing, a mere twenty-six letters that get spun by gifted practitioners into entire libraries full of history, novels, drama, nonfiction, and much else. Words inform us. They move, inspire, and incite us. Putting words together is central to the human experience. Figuring out how to do it well is an ongoing challenge and a continuous education.
Ten years ago, I began doing an in-person presentation and workshop I call The Ross Rules: Ten Steps to Effective Communication. Clients have ranged from non-profits to government agencies, PR firms to global enterprises, and writing groups to book clubs.
During that time, I’ve often been asked if I offer an online or video version. I don’t, but I’m going to use this Substack to discuss what I’ve learned in a lifetime of writing my own stuff, working with many excellent book and magazine editors, and editing the work of others.
WHAT ARE MY QUALIFICATIONS? I’ve written hundreds of articles, profiles, and essays, and won half a dozen National Magazine Awards. Of the four books I’ve written, one became a number-one bestseller in Canada and a Philip Seymour Hoffman movie. Another got into a tug-of-war in Hollywood and emerged a dreadful adaptation starring a much-loved, sad-faced comedic actor.
I’ve also ghostwritten books for a wide range of people, helping them create a record of their lives.
As a magazine editor and book publisher, I’ve worked with writers from middling to brilliant, including winners of the Nobel Prize, the Man Booker, the Orange Prize, and the Governor-General’s Award. I’ve helped people craft a great many celebrated books and award-winning magazine pieces, and I’ve often been a judge in different prize categories. Along the way I’ve come to see, appreciate, and analyze the skills and qualities shared by many excellent writers.
Each week I’ll post something meant to illuminate an aspect of good writing. Effective communication pays dividends in the corporate world, and imaginative writing is its own reward. I’ll spare you quotes from famous people meant to convince you that improving your writing is a worthwhile goal. If that’s not self-evident, I doubt you’d have read this far.
CHECK IN NEXT WEEK to learn why concision is one hallmark of effective writing. To follow along, please subscribe. Should you have friends or colleagues who might enjoy or benefit from this type of instruction, I’d be most grateful if you’d share this with them.