Chapter 1: Embracing Your Multi-Voiced Nature

Yesterday, I visited my son, who enlisted me to take on the role of doggie-grandma by feeding his blue heeler, Bruno. It turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated...

I spent time with my son yesterday, and he asked me to play my part as the doggie-grandma by feeding his blue heeler, Bruno. However, it was not as straightforward as it seemed. Bruno needed to showcase a series of 'tricks' before he could eat. My son demonstrated first, instructing Bruno to run to his bed and lie down. Bruno complied without hesitation. When it was my turn, however, Bruno simply stared at me. I attempted again, but still no response. "I guess my voice isn’t deep enough," I joked, then commanded in a deeper tone. To our surprise, Bruno obeyed. Although the deep voice felt a bit comical coming from me, it worked wonders in that moment. It had the ability to engage Bruno effectively.

This experience sparked a thought...

Finding your voice is common advice for new writers. While it's not inherently bad advice, an authentic voice can indeed amplify your writing. A consistent voice weaves together your body of work and draws readers who resonate with your style. However, as complex beings, I wonder if a single voice can fully encapsulate our essence. As beautiful as that singular voice might be, it may become monotonous over time. Why not create space for the unexpected? Broaden your creative horizons by experimenting with various writing styles and voices.

I personally resonate with the idea of possessing multiple voices. What if we have numerous authentic voices within us? What if we could fluidly shift between different styles, tones, and voices? Fiction writers often do this effortlessly as they transition between characters. Imagine if our own voice could be just as richly varied.

I am a strong advocate for an experimental approach to writing (at least when I’m in the privacy of my own notebook). Of course, experimentation comes with its risks; there are no certainties. Stepping outside of our comfort zones can be intimidating and requires trust, as well as a mindset open to learning.

"In the beginner's mind, there are many possibilities, but in the expert's, there are few." – Shunryu Suzuki

By moving past our fears, we can uncover unexpected opportunities. What if the voice we believe to be authentic is merely a muffled reflection of our truest self—one that is not fully realized?

I have decided to challenge myself to go beyond my usual straightforward voice and to experiment with new styles and tones. I particularly enjoy reading authors who have a more lyrical and poetic style than my own, those who evoke a sense of mystery. Could I infuse more lyricism and enchantment into my own writing?

Will you join me in this exploration? What new voices might you choose to experiment with? If you take on this challenge, please share links to your creations in the comments. Feedback can motivate us as we explore, but let's be gentle with one another, acknowledging the inherent risks as we stretch our creative boundaries in pursuit of diverse vocal ranges.

So, taking a deep breath, here’s a short poem in a style that differs from my usual approach:

Fifteen minutes on foot

and I arrive,

there to absorb life-force,

kick off shoes, ground,

lie down, nestle in soft warmth.

I close my eyes, listening

to distant roars,

then silence—

left roar, right roar,

silence,

a soft whisper to the right,

then silence,

centred crescendo,

then soft, then silent,

rolling rhythms

lulling

stillness, sound

waves ebb and flow,

pause, move,

heal.

I composed this piece after a beach visit I’ve made many times before, yet I had never focused so intently on the rhythm of the waves. Yes, I always listen to the waves, but I had never truly appreciated how their sounds come from various directions and distances. Lying on the sand with my eyes closed and ears open gifted me a surprising awareness. Alone on my deserted stretch of beach, I felt solitude without loneliness, accompanied by the soothing sea-songs. This heightened level of sensory observation is fulfilling, especially for those of us who write.

I haven’t titled this poem yet. "Sea-song" seems like an obvious choice, but I want to preserve the mystery of what I’m describing, allowing it to unfold for the reader. What are your thoughts? This is another end of my local beach. Photo by Zac Edmonds on Unsplash.

For another exploration of multi-voice writing, stay tuned for my next article: "Is this Madness, or Creative Process?"

Chapter 2: The Importance of Experimentation

The first video, Best Way to Discover Your Unique Voice, provides insights on how to uncover and embrace your individual writing style.

The second video, How to Find Your Mix Voice, delves into techniques for blending different vocal styles to enhance your creative expression.