Read Your Work Out Loud... to Someone Else!

[Anthony Tompkins]

This is a strangely hectoring post. Why are you assuming that people don't do this already, or that they don't believe in or love their story, etc etc?

Totally didn't mean for it to be that way! Just speaking from many authors I've become acquainted with online. I in no way meant that every or even most authors aren't comfortable/in love with their story. I've just met many who are very intimidated by the idea of being an active advocate for their work.

 

[Anthony Tompkins]

Good point! I have actually never had the stomach to ask someone to read my work to me haha. I can only imagine it would be an entirely frank and sincere experience.

My wife has read some of my book out loud to me once or twice. As others have said, it is a truly unique experience. Hearing the involuntary rise and fall in someone's tone as they feel what they read is truly something else. It's taken me a long time to work up to this, but it's always worth it to ask a good friend for help. You'd be surprised what they'd do for you if you actually ask.

 

[CarBear]

My wife has read some of my book out loud to me once or twice. As others have said, it is a truly unique experience. Hearing the involuntary rise and fall in someone's tone as they feel what they read is truly something else. It's taken me a long time to work up to this, but it's always worth it to ask a good friend for help. You'd be surprised what they'd do for you if you actually ask.

That actually sounds like a lovely experience! Taking this advice seriously, I started gently by asking a friend to read two of my more questionable short stories to me. It was crystal clear immediately, at least to me, when my intended tones and emotions were hit or missed. Very helpful!

 

[Joshua Jones]

I hate my voice, but if anyone wants me to read aloud a selection from their WiPs, I'd be willing to record it to YouTube and send it DM or post here. Just please don't ask me to read thousands upon thousands of words!

 

[Anthony Tompkins]

If you decide to do it, DM me here! I'm on youtube, so I'd love to give it a watch and listen.

I hate my voice, but if anyone wants me to read aloud a selection from their WiPs, I'd be willing to record it to YouTube and send it DM or post here. Just please don't ask me to read thousands upon thousands of words!