Beyond Style: Mastering the Finer Points of Writing

by Gary Provost

To write well, you must reach beyond the classroom basics of composition, get a grip on the more complex concepts, and learn how to create books, articles, and stories that move—not only from the editor’s desk to the bookstore, but also in the minds of your readers.In this book, accomplished writer Gary Provost helps you tackle that tough task. Here you’ll touch the soul of fine fiction and nonfiction. You’ll explore the the relationships between form and content, proportion and pacing, slant and theme. And you’ll gain a new perspective on how words work together.In that newfound knowledge you’ll find power—power Provost helps you transfer to the page. In candid, conversational style, he shows • how to balance event and dialogue to keep the pace lively• why unity is essential to a story—and how to maintain it• how to make the written word pleasing to the ear• the value of fresh, strong imagery• how startling originality will keep your readers interested• how to make your story credible—even when it’s fiction• how subtlety allows your reader to participate in the action• how to tighten up the tension at every level of your storyProvost makes no promise that the work will be easy. He promises only that your books, articles, and stories will get better. There are, after all, no magic words—except those you put on the page.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 1988

Reviews

[carlageek · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book calls itself an intermediate guide to style, and if that’s so, I’ve perhaps advanced further than I thought as a writer, because there isn’t a whole lot in here that is new or surprising to me. That said, there are quite a few points that I already live by, which are articulated well or pointedly in a way that I appreciate. (You can have a look at what I’ve highlighted for a taste of these.) I don’t agree with everything the author says - perhaps one should never agree with everything in a book of writing advice - but it is all insightful and does inspire thought. What more can you ask from a book of writing advice, really?

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this a lot. It was exactly what I was looking for, something more about the philosophy of writing rather than the mechanics or the selling. Most of this has appeared in other places, of course, but it was nice to have it one place.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My very first writing book, bought years ago and kept lovingly on my shelf. It works perfectly as a first writing book, covering a broad range of topics and a lot of mistakes that beginning writers make. Covers both fiction and non-fiction writing.

[Cheryl Licata · Rating 4 out of 5]

This writing book is full of information and exercises for writers and wannabees. I have pages of helpful notes. The book also gives me food for thought as I read -- why some stories get bogged
down in the middle, point of view, wordiness, sentence structure, dialogue etc. An interesting quote begins the book -- "Getting published is easy. Writing well is what's hard." I think both writing and getting published are extremely difficult!!!

[BeyondStyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beyond Style" explores writing nuances often overlooked in standard guides. Covering topics from sentence rhythm to dialogue, it offers fresh insights for both novices and experienced writers. With literary examples and practical exercises, this book challenges authors to refine their craft. It's an invaluable resource for those serious about elevating their writing to exceptional levels.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring

Provost is a must-read for writers of all genres. He offers great advice to take your writing to the next level and provides many examples to prove his point. My only suggestion is that the examples should have been either italicized or set off.

[Pat Stanford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though this book was written by in the 1980's it is still valid today.it is a very meaty book
It gets right to the point and doesn't waste your time. Keeping this one.

[Leah Soucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I am new to writing and really want to write a book. This book was very informative but it was also humorous. This author is very funny and I laughed out loud quite a bit. I would definitely recommend it.

[Steven · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is another writing book where the author's voice and style dominates, so if you bond with that voice then this book will work for you. Otherwise it will be hard to access all the writing advice he gives.

[Eric Beaty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got this jem at my local library book sale. Only $2 for hardcover!