Find Your Writing Rhythm by Leela J. Williams

When requests come in multiples, I tend to pay attention. When people suggest I write about writing, I take it as a compliment but brush it off as impractical. Three people reaching out within days of each other with the same request prompted me to reconsider my position. I feel somewhat vulnerable sharing my process because it is a little peculiar — and changeable.

I’ve worked in publishing since 2002 and approach every project differently. I might spend weeks researching. I might dance out a concept until my body feels what I want to say. For me, there is no set method for writing. But I do have tricks that other authors have found useful.

Three Tips for Writing Your Oracle Deck

I won’t get into choosing a theme or defining your overarching message. If you are planning to write an oracle, there’s a strong chance you have those areas covered. The craft comes in delivering a set of unique messages that readers can trust.

1. Decide on a clear message for each card.

What we plan can go out the window once the writing begins, but starting with a list of distinct meanings helps reduce repetitive advice. When the cards all have something different to say, it builds tension into the interpretation process and makes each message more meaningful.

2. Be specific.

Don’t be afraid of giving detailed messages and avoid platitudes. One way to do this is to avoid clichés. If you have heard a phrase before, go deeper and search for your own expression. If the card is about love, try writing the message without ever using the word love — or limit yourself to using it once. The benefits here are many. Love has many aspects and means something different for everyone. Using other words shows people what love means for this card. This approach also makes your writing more engaging, as you will naturally use fresh phrases and minimise repetition. It will also prompt you to go deeper than surface meanings.

3. Be your honest, beautiful self.

As a writer, you are in a relationship with your readers. Make that relationship respectful and authentic. Readers won’t trust you if you sound like everyone else. Be genuine. Be you. Let go of any notion that it’s egotistical to share what you know with the intention of helping others. Have faith that the wisdom you lean on — or are inspired by — is a gift to be shared.

When I write, I don’t concern myself with whether or not someone will ever read my work. That gives me the freedom to create outside the lines. Write with abandon. Then, edit with a clear idea of your vision and your audience. And the best writing advice? Go for it! You don’t need permission or an excuse. There may be false or staggered starts, but with persistence, every project will find its rhythm. Write until you find yours. 

Connect with Leela at https://linktr.ee/leelajwilliams. Image features an original artwork by Sharon McLeod and Long-Eared Owl from Maxine Gadd’s Zoologica: The Steampunk Oracle (Available from Tarotopia).