As an actress, I’ve always been fascinated with the many ways in which the craft of acting can compare to the craft of writing. There is much that writers can learn from actors that can help us deepen characterization, tap into emotion, and break down scenes and plot.
In the previous post of this series, I shared about other ways in which writers can glean from actors apart from the craft—specifically when it comes to the approach to the writing process. Today, I’d like to share a few realizations I’ve discovered about the career of acting that writers can benefit from as well.
On Career…
1. Your style will add a spark of uniqueness to your story in a way that only you can. When casting directors receive auditions for a particular role, they don’t necessarily make their casting decisions based upon who is the “best actor” (although acting ability is certainly vital, of course); rather, they choose the actor who brings a certain life to the character. Different actors will perform the same role various ways. Because of this, actors need to focus on what they specifically can bring to the character that others cannot. Let’s learn how to apply this to our writing as well. There is a unique voice, a “life,” that only you can bring to the page. Allow that to show forth in your writing.
2. Don’t underestimate the value of training. Actors understand this value; after all, they must include this in their resumes when they submit to casting directors! It’s impressive for a casting director to see that an actor has studied with professional acting coaches. Similarly, it’s impressive for agents and editors to see that writers have devoted time (and money) into sharpening their craft. This proves that the writer is serious about the profession and helps them come across as professional rather than amateur.
3. Rejections aren’t a sign that you’re a bad writer. Serious actors must face rejection nearly every day. With the overwhelming amount of competition, it’s impossible for an actor to land every role he/she auditions for. In the writing industry, publishers and agents have no choice but to be selective, too, as they have limited available slots in their roster to fill. Let’s view rejections as an inevitable byproduct to being a professional rather than a personal offense to our craft.
4. When we detach ourselves to our writing, we leave room to grow. Actors must get accustomed with following the direction given by a director, even if this requires performing a scene in a way that differs from how they had originally rehearsed. But if the actor refuses to follow direction and sticks with the original performance, he will likely come across as both amateur and prideful. Let’s apply this same lesson to our writing. The process of receiving feedback from an editor can be painful—but let’s not cling to our words so tightly that we refuse to change and listen to constructive feedback. It’s in this process of change that we grow as a writer.
5. Great art can never be rushed. It’s crazy how, in the filmmaking industry, the shortest scenes often take the longest to film! Yet it’s often those “small moments” that make for the biggest impact. When we write, let’s not rush those small moments either. Instead, let’s take the time necessary that will allow that scene to deliver the intended response.
6. When we approach writing, let’s not aim for perfection. Rather, let’s learn as much as we can about the craft, and when it’s actually time to write that first draft, we can let go and trust our inner artist. This is what I’ve been instructed to do from my acting coach, too, and it has really helped me to avoid perfectionist paralysis and deliver my best work.
7. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. How horrible would it be if actors thought about all of their friends and family members who would someday watch their emotional scenes? They’d probably refuse to allow themselves to “go there.” As writers, we, too, must be vulnerable. Don’t worry about who may someday read your book. Stay in the moment, remembering that vulnerability is often what connects most with our audience.
That concludes our series on acting techniques! What have you learned from actors, the acting process, or the career of acting that has most served to be beneficial for you as a writer? Let me know in the comments!
Tessa Emily Hall is an award-winning author who writes inspirational yet authentic books for teens to remind them they’re not alone. She writes both fiction and devotionals for teens, including her upcoming release, LOVE YOUR SELFIE (October 2020, Ellie Claire). Her latest devotional, COFFEE SHOP DEVOS, encourages teens to pursue a personal relationship with Christ. Tessa’s passion for shedding light on clean entertainment and media for teens led her to a career as a Literary Agent at Cyle Young Literary Elite, YA Acquisitions Editor for Illuminate YA (LPC Imprint), and Founder/Editor of PursueMagazine.net. She’s guilty of making way too many lattes and never finishing her to-read list. When her fingers aren’t flying 128 WPM across the keyboard, she can be found speaking to teens, decorating art journals, and acting in Christian films. Her favorite way to procrastinate is through connecting with readers on her blog, mailing list, social media (@tessaemilyhall), and website: tessaemilyhall.com.
