WWWWW+H
Another look at writing a story

We have all heard of the 5 Ws in writing - who, what, when, where, why - and how.

But just how does the average writer use all of these questions? A bulletin can be full of photos, clip art, stories, lists, and tabulations - yet still be as boring as a shirt that is full of starch. We generally lack the 6th W that really makes a story come alive and be enjoyable to the reader

Dr. Peter Jacobi, retired professor of journalism at Indiana University, suggests that the 6th W [H] in writing a story should be warmth. "Instead of merely reciting the facts, talk about the people who were involved. Make them real by including details. Use descriptive words to set the scene and describe the action. Provide readers with information that leaves them thinking, 'Wow! I can just imagine being there!'"

Some tips to warm up your articles include:

1. Use color words (adjectives).
2. Use feeling words - like hurt, laughed, cried, thrilled.
3. Use words that help readers feel they are reading about themselves.
4. Use examples that readers can relate to. Don't get too abstract.
5. Use descriptive details to bring your readers into the story.
6. Write with restraint.

Example: The chorus enjoyed a very good weekend retreat. There were over forty members present during the day. Our special coach, Jim Henry, shared some of his experiences at the end of the day.

Same event, with warmth added: 40 members of the Lincoln chorus spent an enjoyable and productive weekend retreat in the comfortable surroundings of Grand Pa's Woods. These enthusiastic members gathered to fine-tune our two contest selections. Jim Henry, the director of the St. Charles chapter and a Presentation Judge, led the chorus through several different ways to help us better express our songs. Jim also shared some of his experiences on the International stage as a member of the St. Charles chapter and as the bass in our 1993 International Quartet Champions, The Gas House Gang. His expertise and personality made this retreat fun, interesting and inspired us to achieve a higher level of singing performance. Our chapter gained huge benefits from this session with Jim.

With just a little bit of words added to a story it makes it more interesting and gives the reader a feeling that they want to read further.