Journalism 1 series Article #2 ::Zinsser::

William Zinsser’s book On Writing Well speaks to aspiring journalists

By Steven Fletcher

Although it was written 30 years ago, William Zinsser’s book On Writing Well, still inspires new journalists. His practical writing wisdom and subtle sense of humor create a model for how he believes a writer should write. Zinsser’s book is said to be an engaging read, which is often surprising for a book about writing. Many say this reads in the same manner one would listen to their grandfather.

“It’s an easy read because that’s what he’s trying to teach the reader to do,” said Amanda Thompson, ’11, a communication arts major from Cohasset MA. “It’s an example.”

Zinsser writes in the simple, conversational style he advocates. Readers seem to think little in Zinsser’s work is pretentious or academic. For a journalist, avoiding both is essential. Many up and coming journalists find him a good writer, writing about what makes a successful non-fiction writer. “I think that he’s very practical and he gets down to basics,” said Debora Devenney, ’12, a Communication Arts major from East Haddam, CT. “He writes with experience and expertise."

“[He] teaches how to get a good interview, as well as things like leads and knowing where to end,” said Thompson, “with something punchy and unexpected.” Decades later, aspiring journalists felt that both the style, and interests of the audience, have stayed constant.  Zinsser’s advice on writing is felt to be applicable even today.

Zinsser’s wisdom strikes a common chord with these aspiring journalists. His style and tone are found to be worth imitating. Most valued Zinsser’s ability to be both efficient and interesting.  “We need to be efficient, ” said Devenney. “You don’t want to waste the reader’s time.”