Tips to avoid "purple prose"
Purple prose is writing so flowery, ornate, and overblown it’s practically blooming with adjectives and adverbs. It’s like a writer’s version of a peacock’s tail – a flamboyant display of literary prowess that can, unfortunately, distract from the story itself. Let’s uncover how to avoid this pitfall and strike the right balance.
Recognise it
The first step in avoiding purple prose is understanding what it looks like. It’s often marked by overuse of adjectives, adverbs, similes, metaphors, and complex words where simpler ones would do. If a sentence makes you pause and go, ‘Wait, what was that again?’ because of its convoluted structure or vocabulary, it might be edging into purple territory.
Prioritise clarity
Your priority as a writer is to communicate clearly. While elaborate descriptions can sometimes enrich a story, they can also obscure meaning and frustrate readers if overused. When crafting a sentence, consider whether your words clarify or complicate the message you’re trying to convey. If it’s the latter, it might be time to prune.
Keep it relevant
Ensure your descriptions are relevant and necessary. While you might be tempted to show off your extensive vocabulary or intricate metaphors, it’s best to leave them out if they don’t serve the plot or character development. Your reader isn’t here for a vocabulary lesson; they’re here for a compelling story.
Show restraint
Just as a good chef knows not to drown a dish in too many spices, a good writer understands the power of restraint. Using an occasional complex word or metaphor can add a dash of flavour to your prose, but overdoing it can leave a bitter taste in the reader’s mouth.
Read it aloud
This is an invaluable tool for catching purple prose. Reading your work aloud can highlight awkward phrasing and over-complicated sentences. If you run out of breath or trip over words, it’s a good sign that your prose might be a bit too purple.
Get a second opinion
Sometimes, as writers, we can be too close to our own work to see its flaws. A trusted friend or a writing group can provide an invaluable outside perspective, helping you identify areas where your prose is too florid.
Escaping the purple haze
Language is a tool, and like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Strive for balance in your writing – a mix of simple and complex sentences, a sprinkling of unique words and metaphors, and above all, clarity and relevance. Write to enhance your story, not to show off your linguistic gymnastics.
