The little controversy over at John Cow’s blog got me thinking about writing style. Since this is a very new blog I haven’t exactly developed a writing style yet. But, I do have an opinion on the matter. I think it is very important for a blogger to develop a writing style which fits their personality. If you are an outgoing person who is very spontaneous your blog should reflect that. If you are more laid back and organized your writing should reflect that. Your writing will flow more easily and you will have more fun with your blog if you write how you feel.
If your goal is to be a true “professional” and appeal to the most people then you will want to keep your blog mostly free of profanities. The use of a “4 letter” word here and there won’t hurt your blog much. Just make sure to keep the curse words few-and-far-in-between. Basically, act like you would as a professional in an office setting. There will be some profanity used at certain times, but it should be avoided in most cases.
Now, if you’re like many people you use profanity in your everyday life. Watching television nowadays shows more and more words are being deemed socially acceptable. I think it is important to establish your style in the beginning if you are going to be using controversial language. You won’t offend loyal readers if you happen to drop a bomb later on.
Basically, I think bloggers need to be themselves. I do know if you have a loose writing style and drop profanity all the time you will turn off many readers. But, you are being yourself and having fun. To completely change your writing style because you are trying to “appeal to the masses” might end up hurting you in the long run. You may no longer have a good time writing your blog and censor what you really want to say. You will find your niche and you will still have loyal readers. Don’t you think it would be better to enjoy your blog and writing then trying to change yourself?
Another important issue here is cultural differences. Because of the differences between Ireland and other countries The Cow looked more like a pig. But, he was just using a word that is socially acceptable in Ireland and probably doesn’t even have the same context as it does in America. If you want to be safe, it’s better to avoid slang words and curse words all together. This will ensure other cultures won’t take offense to your writing.
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Dude, that word is not “socially acceptable” in Ireland. And it has the exact same context, too. It’s not like in means something else in Europe.
Just because more trashy people use the term in another country doesn’t make it quirky. I understand the sentiment behind your post, but no matter how you dissect it, you can’t defend a dude who used a horrible word on his blog . . . and then caved under pressure when his readers complained. There was nothing brave about it.
My kids are starting to get into blogging, too, and they sometimes look at John Cow. Luckily they didn’t see the word he used, but I wouldn’t have wanted to hear them asking me what it meant.
I hate political correctness, but that word doesn’t have a place on any site. It is totally disgusting.
Anyway, good thought-provoking post, and I like your blog!
Contest Blogger,
Thank you for your input on this subject. But, I did do a little research before I wrote the last part about it being “socially acceptable”. Here is an interesting article on the subject:
Check it Out
I agree he should not have used the term on his blog, but there can always be confusion with cultural differences.
great Now as I’m trying to figure out blogging. You suggest I come up with a style?
This blog stuff is a lot of work.
Both of you (the rookie, and fawn) have a writing style already. It isn’t something that you “come up with”. It’s also not something that is easily changed. Your writing style is your online personality. It’s a little different for everyone.
Don’t sweat it. Whether you know it or not you already have a style. Everyone does. Even from day one as a blogger.
I agree with your post here; we really do need to be ourselves in our blog writing. However, even if I used certain words or expressions in my speaking, there are still things that are totally inappropriate for public consumption! It is not a matter of personal preference, but one of common courtesy.
TM