CJ Pukala

Today’s Song: All About U by Tupac Shakur (1996)

Reading Zinsser’s On Writing Well, especially Chapter 5, got me thinking a lot about this idea of “audience.” He says something that sounds like a total contradiction that we should always write for ourselves, but also make sure not to lose the reader.

Zinsser’s basically saying there are two sides to writing: craft and attitude. Craft is about the technical stuff — being clear, organized, and making sure readers don’t get lost halfway through a sentence. That part’s for them. But attitude is about your energy, your honesty, your personality. When I read articles, I obviously look for a clear and organized piece that keeps me intrigued, but at the same time, combining that knowledge with fun information, energy, and a personal spin on it.

I like how he says if something makes you laugh or feels real while you’re writing it, put it in. I’ve noticed that’s when my writing feels strongest — when I’m not overthinking whether people will “get it” or if it sounds too casual. It’s the same thing I’ve noticed working on creative stuff like my Yankees instagram page. Whenever my buddy Brandon and I try too hard to post something we think people want to see, such as informative graphics with data, it usually falls flat. But when we post something that just feels natural, something we genuinely believe is incredible like a video from the stadium… that’s what people actually connect with. I see writing in the same kind of way.

What I really like about Zinsser’s approach is that he doesn’t tell writers to chase approval. He’s basically saying, if you’re genuine, the right readers will stick with you. That’s something I’ve been trying to apply to my own writing, which is not forcing a voice and just letting my story come naturally.

So yeah, maybe it sounds like a paradox on paper, but Zinsser’s point is actually pretty simple: write for yourself, but respect your reader. Be clear, be real, and have fun with it. If you enjoy what you’re writing, chances are someone else will too. Even if they don’t like it, who cares? You do you. I live by that phrase.