I used ‘all hell broke loose’ and ‘suddenly’ in Dying Days 4, which Robert was kind enough to read and blurb. Now he’s using it against me. Nice move.
We all have tics in our writing that show up as we revise our manuscripts. I think it was Elmore Leonard who said we shouldn’t use, “all hell broke loose,” and “suddenly.” I actually don’t see a problem with suddenly, but because Elmore Leonard didn’t like it, I’m too chicken to use it. I also think adverbs get a bad rap, though I use them sparingly.
Here are some more things that get repeated in manuscripts you should consider leaving out for a faster, easier and clearer read.
1. When you can say it in fewer words, do so. (General guideline. No, this doesn’t mean all novels should be reduced to their three-paragraph summaries. Yes, we’d all be better read, but it’s about the journey.)
2. When you can use a simpler word instead of an unfamiliar one, consider that. I use some Latin and unusual words in This Plague of…
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Nobody knew until you announced it. Why are you hitting yourself? Why are you hitting yourself!
(And thanks for the reblog.)
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You know I’m a private person and don’t like self-promoting me or my friends.
Armand
P.S. “Dying Days 4” zombie book set for mid-June release. Just sayin’
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