Final answer:
The student reflects on how 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser challenges them to simplify their writing and pay close attention to the necessity of each word, impacting how they will write and read in the future.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dear Mr. William Zinsser,
I recently had the pleasure of reading your book, On Writing Well, and I must express how profoundly it has impacted my approach to writing. One idea that particularly challenged me was the emphasis on clarity and simplicity; it encouraged me to strip away the unnecessary fluff in my writing. This was no easy feat, as I had to reconsider my penchant for elaborate vocabulary and intricate sentences. The process, though difficult, has resulted in a more powerful and direct style of communication.
One surprising notion from your book was the concept that every word should serve a purpose. This pushed me to scrutinize each word for its necessity and value. Such discipline has sharpened my self-editing skills and instilled in me a newfound respect for the reader’s time and attention.
Moving forward, these ideas will significantly shape my writing and the way I read other authors. I’ll not only work to apply these principles to my own drafts but also appreciate the craft behind the works I read, recognizing the deliberate choices made by fellow writers. Thank you for contributing to my journey towards becoming a more effective writer.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]