WRITING STYLES

INTRODUCTION

There are different styles of writing. Each is useful in its own way and has a specific purpose. Because of their nature and purpose, they cover different types of documents and publications. Biographies like Elon Musk’s are usually written in the narrative style. This style is also used in novels, poems, and memoirs. 

ELON MUSK BIOGRAPHY AND WRITING STYLES

To finish our Elon Musk journey, I wish to discuss the writing of Walter Isaacson. 

Elon Musk’s biography is of course written in narrative style. Narrative writing as we will mention below is all about stories, connecting facts, and teaching without explaining. (1)

Walter Isaacson masterfully weaved Elon’s stories and teachings, which he follows and believes in intricately. He did exceptionally with painting Elon Musk and his personality. And, though not entirely certain, I believe he kept true to Mr. Musk’s voice and character. It was also vey descriptive. At times it felt as though I was there. As though I knew him. 

He made the message of Mr. Musk very clear. I found myself understanding his message, though not necessarily agreeing with it. It is an exceptional piece of written literature altogether. 

DIFFERENT WRITING STYLES

Depending on what you intend to write you should pick your writing style. There are at least 17 different types of writing styles: 

1. Descriptive Writing is used to provide details about places, people or events. Its goal is to let the reader feel as though they are experiencing everything in the storyline themselves. (1)

2. Persuasive Writing is used to convince the readers to believe in a certain idea (and implement it). It is grounded in logical reasoning and appeals to the readers emotional side. Usually, we see this style in advertisements, reviews, recommendation letters, cover letters, company brochures, business proposals, and opinion columns. (1)

3. Narrative Writing is all about masterfully incorporating stories, facts, and teachings without using the art of explaining. It helps readers relate to the content. We can find it in novels, biographies, poems, memoirs, and more. (1)

4. Expository Writing, found in textbooks, newsletters, and educational articles, business/technical/scientific writing, recipes, and newsletters, give the readers important information and instructions about a topic. It is based solely on facts and in so does not include personal opinions on the subject. (1)

5. Review Writing helps readers decide if they should invest in a certain product, service, or experience. It involves both subjective and objective thoughts to relay the authors’ experience. It can include persuasive writing, but not always. (1)

6. Technical Writing makes highly scientific and technical writing and simplifies it for the average reader. It communicates knowledge and instructions in the simplest form. 

It can also be used for teaching and educating employees about protocols and correct procedures regarding safety or in for breaking down research data. (1)

7. Objective Writing is all about stating and sticking to facts without forming any personal opinion. The author needs to remain neutral and unbiased and let the readers form their own opinions. (1)

8. Subjective Writing in opposition to objective writing is all about opinions. It expresses feelings, opinions, beliefs, perspectives, and judgments. It lacks factual statements and evidence. Hence, it can’t be verified. It stems from the author's personal experience. (1)

9. Analytical writing breaks down a topic or concept into its constituent parts and evaluates their relationships, significance, and implications. It is a systematic and critical style. (2)

10. Creative writing as an imaginative and expressive style embraces literary devices, such as metaphors, similes, and symbolism, to create depth and resonance. It explores fiction, poetry, and personal expression. (2)

11. Business writing is a practical and professional style that encompasses a wide range of written communications, emails, memos, reports, proposals, and presentations. (2)

12. Journalistic writing reports the news, and events, or provides analysis. It is informative and objective in style and prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and the timely dissemination of information. (2)

13. Academic writing is a formal and scholarly style that follows a specific set of conventions like precise language, adherence to citation and referencing style, and the presentation of well-supported arguments. It is prevalent in educational and research contexts. (2)

14. Scriptwriting is a specialized writing style involving crafting dialogue, actions, and stage directions to guide actors and directors. In other words, it is dedicated to creating scripts for various forms of media. (2) 

15. Copywriting, involving crafting compelling headlines, taglines, and promotional texts, specializes in creating persuasive and engaging content for marketing and advertising purposes. (2)

16. Personal writing is an introspective self-expression of daily experiences, thoughts, emotions, and observations in a private diary or journal. It can be therapeutic and promotes self-awareness, stress relief, and emotional processing. (2)

17. Travel writing combines the art of storytelling with a deep appreciation for exploration and adventure. It transports readers to distant lands, cultures, and experiences. (2)

CONCLUSION

There are different writing styles. Each has its own purpose. Based on their purposes they are used in different types of documents and publications. Mr. Walter Isaacson did an amazing job with Elon Musk’s biography. A great descriptive narrative piece of writing. It has a way of drawing you inside and also explains Mr. Musk’s message well.

SOURCES

1. BIT. AI Blog: 8 Different Types of Writing Styles (And How to Improve Your Own). Available on https://blog.bit.ai/types-of-writing-styles/

2. Christopher Ortiz: 15 Writing Styles – Explained and Explored. Available on https://self-publishingschool.com/different-writing-styles/