Zinsser's 30-year-old Book on Writing Still Speaks to Modern Writers

By Jessica De Vivo

The classic guidebook for writing, On Writing Well, by William Zinsser, first published in 1976, is now in its seventh edition, and has sold over one million copies. Talented students and future writers in Professor Jo Kadlecek’s journalism class at Gordon College are delving into Zinsser’s book with eagerness and are filled with nothing but praise. Even after 30 years, On Writing Well continues to speak to the heart of the journalist.

“He had a lot of practical tips for writing that are timeless,” said Naomi Peirce, ’11, a communication arts major from Claremont, NH. “I really liked what he said about not cluttering your writing and adding extra words and phrases that aren’t needed.” Peirce finds Zinsser’s expertise beneficial, including his chapter on the importance of leaving out the “fluff” in writing. “Get to your point,” said Peirce.

Michelle Webber, ’11, a communication arts major from Blue Hill, ME, couldn’t agree more. “It’s a good, classic guide for writing.” Webber also finds Zinsser’s writing tips very helpful. They hit-home with her. “Getting rid of clutter is important because I tend to write a lot of unnecessary things…and I hate having to cut, but I know I will have to do that if I’m going to get to the point of what I’m writing about.”

Webber was enlightened to the helpful hint that writers just need to be themselves. “Don’t put up a façade to impress you readers.” Webber reflects on how she was taught to write with huge, impressive words when she was younger. “We write to make the reader think we’re more intelligent than we are, rather than writing what’s on your mind and what comes from your heart.”

There is no doubt that On Writing Well has made a lasting impression on Kadlecek’s writing students. Though the book is 30-years-old, they see it as a helpful tool in their future writing. “I see it helping me…he has a lot of experience and he knows what he’s talking about,” said Peirce. Peirce and Webber both agree that Zinsser’s piece is still relevant and contains lessons for journalism writing that will never fade. “There are some fundamental aspects of journalism that won’t change,” said Webber. It is remarkable that Zinsser’s helpful guide is still impacting the future writers of America.

Pictured: Michelle Webber