Improving Your Writing: Insights from Jorge Luis Borges
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Chapter 1: The Impact of Tone in Storytelling
Jorge Luis Borges, the renowned Argentine author (1896–1986), profoundly transformed the landscape of short fiction. His works, such as "Tlön, Uqbar, Orbis Tertius," "The Aleph," and "The Garden of Forking Paths," blend philosophical and science fiction elements with the intrigue of detective narratives. Borges’ signature style often incorporates enigmatic references to labyrinths, mirrors, and tigers, creating a unique authorial identity.
One remarkable aspect of Borges’ writing is his ability to harmonize high literature with more accessible forms. But how did he achieve this? Insights from "Twenty-Four Conversations with Borges" by Roberto Alifano (1981–1983) shed light on his techniques.
The Importance of Tone
Tone encompasses the mood conveyed through an author's choice of language, shaping how readers feel. A well-crafted tone can evoke a wide array of emotions and can vary from succinct to elaborate. In Borges’ narratives, the tone often reflects a knowledgeable narrator embroiled in a mystery, whether real or imagined. This atmosphere enhances the reader's experience, while the narrator's measured expression (occasionally laced with humor) keeps the story accessible.
Borges emphasized the significance of cadence in his writing, noting:
> “But of course I must get the cadences. That’s far more important than the plot or the metaphor or anything else — the right cadence, the right intonation for every sentence. That, I should say, is all important.” ¹
Chapter 2: Write About Your Passions
To distinguish yourself from other writers, delve into your obsessions. What subjects resonate with you? What ignites your creativity? Engaging with topics that excite you will not only enhance your enthusiasm for writing but also enrich your readers' experience.
Borges frequently wrote about themes that fascinated him—labyrinths, mirrors, libraries, and obscure philosophies. His passion for these motifs made his work easily recognizable. He observed:
> “I have come to see that the circular, specific nature of our individual minds — our consistent preoccupations and infatuations — can help us to rejuvenate our sentences, choose our words, and bring the language of our stories to life.” ²
Chapter 3: Embrace Simplicity
Clarity is key in writing; simple expression often resonates best. Avoid overly complex sentences or intricate vocabulary that may confuse readers. Long-winded sentences can obscure meaning, while frequent unfamiliar words can distract from the intended message.
Borges evolved from a baroque style early in his career to a more straightforward approach as he aged. He remarked:
> “To reach the point of writing in a more or less uncluttered manner, a more or less decorous manner, I’ve had to reach the age of seventy.” ¹
He believed:
> “I try to simply express what I want and I try to do it with common words. Because only the words that belong to the spoken language are effective.” ¹
Chapter 4: Finding Inspiration in Experience
Personal experiences can serve as a rich wellspring for storytelling. Whether joyful or challenging, every moment can be transformed into narrative. While you may believe your experiences are commonplace, your unique perspective adds value to your storytelling.
Borges maintained that:
> “A writer — and, I believe, generally all persons — must think that whatever happens to him or her is a resource. All things have been given to us for a purpose, and an artist must feel this more intensely.” ¹
Chapter 5: The Power of Brevity
Narrative effectiveness often lies in brevity. A well-crafted short story can convey ideas more efficiently than a lengthy novel. Borges never published a novel, arguing that a short story can express more than a longer format. He stated:
> “I think that there are two specific reasons: first, my incorrigible laziness, and second, the fact that I am not very confident makes me want to keep an eye on what I write.” ¹
Chapter 6: Key Takeaways
Jorge Luis Borges has left a lasting legacy on modern literature, inspiring countless writers to explore their craft. His core writing principles include:
- Establish an atmosphere through precise language.
- Write passionately about your interests.
- Prioritize clarity and simplicity.
- Use personal experiences as narrative fuel.
- Remember, a good story doesn’t need to be lengthy.
References
¹ Borges, Jorge Luis. Twenty-four Conversations with Borges: Interviews by Roberto Alifano, 1981–1983. Grove/Atlantic, 1984.
