Voice First: A Writer's Manifesto

Voice First: A Writers Manifesto redefines "voice" in the plural to give writers options, movement, and a way to understand its development over time. It explores various concepts of voice and stories from the authors' writing lives, offering a personal view of struggles with voice influenced by gender, place of origin, privilege, race, ethnicity, and other factors. Writing prompts and exercises help writers stretch their concept of voice and develop a repertoire of voices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Voice is a fundamental aspect of writing, yet many authors and writing teachers struggle to define it effectively. In her book, "Voice First: A Writers Manifesto," Sonya Huber redefines the term "voice" in the plural to provide writers with more options, movement, and a deeper understanding of its development over time. By exploring various concepts of voice and sharing stories from her own writing life, Huber offers a personal perspective on the challenges of finding and developing one's voice, influenced by factors such as gender, place of origin, privilege, race, and ethnicity. The book includes writing prompts and explores different elements of voice, helping writers at all levels expand their concept of voice and create a repertoire of voices to summon.

One of the key themes of "Voice First" is the idea that voice is not a fixed or static entity but rather a dynamic and evolving aspect of writing. Huber argues that writers should embrace their unique voices and use them to communicate their ideas and emotions effectively. She encourages writers to experiment with different writing styles, genres, and voices to find the ones that resonate with them the most.

Huber also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in writing. She believes that writers should write from their own experiences and perspectives, rather than trying to imitate someone else's style or voice. This can be challenging, as it requires writers to be vulnerable and open to criticism. However, Huber argues that authenticity is essential for creating meaningful and memorable writing.

Another important aspect of "Voice First" is the idea of voice as a tool for social change. Huber believes that writing can be used to raise awareness about important issues and to inspire change. She encourages writers to use their voices to speak out against injustice, inequality, and discrimination.

To help writers develop their voices, Huber provides a range of writing exercises and prompts. These exercises include writing about personal experiences, writing about fictional characters, and writing about social issues. Huber also encourages writers to read widely and to study the works of other writers to gain inspiration and learn from their techniques.

One of the strengths of "Voice First" is its accessibility. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is easy to read. Huber's writing is engaging and relatable, and she provides examples from her own writing life to illustrate her points.

However, some critics have argued that "Voice First" is too focused on the individual writer's experience and does not provide enough guidance for writers who are working on collaborative projects or who are writing for a broader audience. Huber acknowledges this criticism and suggests that writers should be aware of the different contexts in which they are writing and should adapt their writing style accordingly.

In conclusion, "Voice First: A Writers Manifesto" is a valuable resource for writers of all levels. Huber's redefinition of the term "voice" in the plural provides writers with more options, movement, and a deeper understanding of its development over time. By exploring various concepts of voice and sharing stories from her own writing life, Huber offers a personal perspective on the challenges of finding and developing one's voice. The book includes writing prompts and explores different elements of voice, helping writers at all levels expand their concept of voice and create a repertoire of voices to summon. While some critics have argued that the book is too focused on the individual writer's experience, Huber acknowledges this criticism and suggests that writers should be aware of the different contexts in which they are writing and should adapt their writing style accordingly.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496231314