One True Sentence

Ernest

In his book, A Moveable Feast, Ernest Hemingway related what he did when he had difficulty writing:

“I would stand and look out over the roofs of Paris and think, ‘Do not worry. You have always written before and you will write now. All you have to do is write one true sentence. Write the truest sentence that you know.’ So finally I would write one true sentence, and then go on from there. It was easy then because there was always one true sentence that I knew or had seen or had heard someone say.”

Me

Well, I don’t live in Paris, France. And I’m not certain if living there would change the fact that I have difficulty writing even after I feel I’ve written one true sentence.

What I do know, is the only thing that helps me is to ask God for the words. And I’m convinced I wouldn’t come up with any words of value if I didn’t.

In my non-fiction, I strive to be accurate and impact others with the perspective I’ve asked God to give me.

In fiction, my goal is to communicate truth within a story generated from my imagination.

Whatever I write, I try to craft every sentence to convey the exact meaning I intend. That, to me, is an essential part of writing a true sentence.

In Life

In life, it’s just as important to ask God to help me say the words He wants — the true words that will be what another person needs to hear.

It may be information, or encouragement, or support, or any number of things.

But I’m convinced I wouldn’t come up with any words of value if I didn’t ask God to help.

And if I don’t have the words that I feel will help, the only true words I need to utter are to God — asking Him to help others in the way they need.

What helps you find the true words that will truly help others?

One True Sentence – What helps you find the true words that will truly help others? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.