Paula Routly Shares Timeless Writing Advice
In the fast-paced world of journalism, the ability to craft compelling and engaging stories is a skill that sets apart the good from the great. Paula Routly, the publisher and editor-in-chief of Seven Days, recently shared invaluable writing advice she received from her first editor, Josh Mamis, that has stood the test of time.
An Unforgettable Lesson in Writing
Routly vividly recalls the moment in 1985 when she, fresh out of Middlebury College, walked into the offices of the Vermont Vanguard Press, offering her services as a dance critic. Little did she know that this encounter would shape her writing career forever. Editor Josh Mamis, impressed by her potential, offered her a freelance assignment but was quick to point out the flaws in her academic writing style. Mamis’ advice to Routly was simple yet profound: “Forget everything you were ever told about writing.”
Timeless Tips for Aspiring Writers
Mamis’ straightforward guidance to Routly emphasized the importance of brevity, simplicity, and clarity in writing. His directive to “brighten up” and make sentences short and accessible resonated with Routly and laid the foundation for her journey as a journalist. His insistence on letting the words flow naturally and avoiding overthinking has been a guiding principle for Routly throughout her career.
Passing on Wisdom to the Next Generation
Four decades later, Routly finds herself in a position to pass on Mamis’ invaluable advice to aspiring journalists at Seven Days. The timeless nature of Mamis’ instruction, characterized by its straightforward yet encouraging tone, continues to inspire and guide the next generation of writers facing a world filled with distractions.
As Routly reflects on Mamis’ impact on her writing journey, she emphasizes the importance of staying true to the core principles of good writing: engaging the reader, informing them, and occasionally delighting them. Mamis’ words, etched in a sepia-toned letter, serve as a beacon of wisdom for Routly and the journalists she mentors, ensuring that the power of storytelling remains alive and well in the ever-evolving landscape of journalism.
