With all the changes in publishing, building your platform, promoting, as well as the writing itself, there is something that is often overlooked; delivery. As writers we are often required to read our work at book signings and other public venues.This can be a daunting experience for many. Our craft requires periods of solitude only to emerge from our caves, blink in the sunlight, and don our promoting hats.
When you are in the audience listening to someone read, does your mind wander, or are you riveted to the story? The story read by someone who engages with the audience will be remembered. At the Word on the Lake Writers Festival, Leah Shaw, a writer and broadcaster, shared some valuable suggestions to bring life to your delivery.
For me, the most enlightening suggestion was mark your copy. Read aloud through your story or chapter. Note when you come upon a difficult section and mark the passage with a squiggly line under the sentence. This alerts you, as you approach, to slow down. Underline any passages you wish to emphasize. One slash/ means a pause. two slashes // means a pause and a breath. Don’t be afraid to pause. If the reader barrels through to the finish line, the listeners will drift. Be sure to rehearse your piece.
Engaging the audience means using eye contact and having a relaxed demeanour. Pay attention to pitch, pacing, tone and emphasis. Relax and tell your story.
Leah Shaw was a wonderful presenter. I came away from her workshop full of information and ideas.
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