Books Quote by Roy Peter Clark
““If the writer wants to create suspense, or build tension, or make the reader wait and wonder, or join a journey of discovery, or hold on for dear life, he can save subject and verb of the main clause until later. As I just did.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Writing Tools” by Roy Peter Clark, 2008
Delaying the main clause’s subject and verb builds suspense and keeps readers engaged.
In simple terms: Delay key info to create tension.
Key Takeaway
Use delayed structure for suspense.
Themes
writing technique
storytelling
suspense
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
educational
craftsmanship
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenplays
- marketing copy
Key Concepts
syntax
narrative pacing
Questions to Reflect On
- When is delayed syntax effective?
- How does it affect pacing?
A Different Perspective
If overused, it can frustrate readers.
