On Clarity
If compression is the thief of understanding, then
clarity is the gift of enlightenment
Somewhere in the median,
they meet.
By Jim McCrory
Image Generated with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot
Clarity in creative writing is like a bridge between the writer and the reader, allowing ideas, emotions, and imagery to travel smoothly from one mind to another. When we write with clarity, we make it easier for readers to connect with our stories and stay immersed in the world we’ve created, even if our themes or language are complex. This doesn’t mean dumbing things down; instead, clarity means expressing we in a way that feels natural, purposeful, and readable.
Clear writing also makes the emotional layers of a piece stronger. When readers don’t have to sift through vague or convoluted language, they’re better able to feel what we want them to feel, whether it's the excitement of a tense moment or the sorrow of a heartbreaking loss. And it builds trust—when readers feel they can follow our thoughts, they’re more likely to invest in our voice and stick with us, even if we’re exploring challenging or intricate ideas.
A clear style also doesn’t take away from the use of rich imagery or symbolism; in fact, it highlights it. Well-defined language lets powerful images stand out and symbols carry real weight without getting lost in abstraction. And readers tend to stay engaged with clarity—no one wants to lose interest because they’re struggling to follow the narrative.
Ultimately, clarity empowers our unique voice, letting readers see the essence of our ideas. When we write clearly, we bring readers into our vision while still allowing room for depth and nuance. It’s that balance—clear yet rich—that makes creative writing both accessible and impactful.
Some notable 20-21st-century authors recognized for their clarity
Jhumpa Lahiri, Kazuo Ishiguro, Ian McEwan, Henning Mankell, George Orwell, Ernest Hemmingway, Marilynne Robinson, Sally Rooney, Ta-Nehisi Coates and Rebecca Solnit