Ellis' Rule, Marquez's Criteria, & Editing Principles

1. Unpacking Ellis's Rule Number One

Let's dive into Ellis's crucial piece of advice: "Rule number one: things that probably make a ______." To truly understand the essence of this statement, we need to consider the context in which Ellis likely presented this rule. In writing, whether it's fiction, non-fiction, or even a simple blog post, the core of engaging content lies in its ability to evoke emotion and thought. What are the things that make a story, an article, or a piece of content truly resonate with the reader? The answer is often found in exploring the uncomfortable, the challenging, and the unexpected.

Think about your favorite stories, movies, or articles. What made them stick with you? Was it the predictable plotline, the easily digestible characters, or the surface-level exploration of a topic? Probably not. It's more likely that the pieces that truly resonated with you were those that delved into complex human emotions, presented difficult choices, or challenged your existing beliefs. Ellis's rule number one points us towards the importance of embracing the messy parts of life, the contradictions, and the areas where there are no easy answers. It's in these spaces that we find the potential for genuine connection with our audience.

To fill in the blank effectively, consider words that encapsulate the essence of engaging content: things that probably make a difference, things that probably make a statement, things that probably make a change, or even things that probably make a mess. All of these words hint at the same underlying principle: content that matters is content that dares to go beyond the surface. It's content that has the potential to disrupt, to inspire, and to leave a lasting impact. As writers and content creators, we should strive to identify those areas where we can push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and offer fresh perspectives. This doesn't mean we need to be controversial for the sake of controversy, but it does mean we need to be willing to explore the complexities of the human experience. By doing so, we can create content that truly connects with our audience on a deeper level.

2. Marquez's Two Criteria for Captivating Your Audience

Marquez, a seasoned storyteller, emphasizes the importance of selecting subjects that genuinely capture the audience's attention. To achieve this, he proposes two main criteria for evaluating the worthiness of a subject. Understanding these criteria can be a game-changer for anyone striving to create compelling content.

Criterion 1: Emotional Resonance. The first criterion revolves around the subject's ability to evoke emotions in the audience. Marquez understands that stories that tap into our feelings – joy, sorrow, anger, fear, love – are the ones that truly linger in our minds. When a topic elicits a strong emotional response, it creates a connection between the content and the reader or viewer. Think about the last time you were moved by a piece of content. What emotions did it stir in you? Was it a heartwarming tale of resilience, a heartbreaking story of loss, or an inspiring account of triumph over adversity? Emotional resonance is the key to making content memorable and impactful.

To apply this criterion, ask yourself: Does this subject have the potential to make my audience feel something? Does it touch upon universal human experiences or relatable situations? Can I present this subject in a way that will evoke empathy, excitement, or even outrage? If the answer is yes, then you're on the right track. However, it's important to note that emotional resonance doesn't necessarily mean sensationalism. It's about finding the emotional core of a story and presenting it in an authentic and meaningful way.

Criterion 2: Intellectual Stimulation. Marquez's second criterion centers on the subject's capacity to intellectually stimulate the audience. This means presenting topics that are thought-provoking, insightful, and that offer new perspectives. While emotional resonance is crucial, content that only appeals to emotions can sometimes feel shallow or manipulative. Intellectual stimulation adds depth and substance, encouraging the audience to think critically and engage with the subject on a deeper level.

Consider subjects that explore complex ideas, challenge conventional wisdom, or offer fresh insights into the world around us. Can you present a familiar topic in a new and interesting way? Can you shed light on a hidden truth or spark a meaningful debate? Content that stimulates the intellect has the power to expand our understanding, challenge our assumptions, and inspire us to learn more. Applying this criterion involves asking: Does this subject offer a new perspective or challenge existing beliefs? Is it intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking? Can I present this subject in a way that will leave the audience feeling enlightened or inspired?

By carefully considering both emotional resonance and intellectual stimulation, you can significantly increase the likelihood of selecting subjects that will captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. Marquez's criteria serve as a valuable compass, guiding content creators towards stories and topics that truly matter.

3. Personal Reflection: Which Editing Principle Resonates Most?

Editing is the unsung hero of great writing. It's the process of refining, polishing, and shaping raw material into a compelling final product. Countless editing principles exist, each offering unique approaches to improving clarity, conciseness, and overall impact. Reflecting on which of these principles resonates most personally can provide valuable insights into your writing process and help you develop a stronger editing style.

Some editors champion the principle of **