The dilemma for women who love to write may not have so much to do with finding the elusive literary voice, as with being reluctant to use the one that's already lurking inside, just waiting for the chance to speak up. Many of us, especiall, y those from the generations taught to be good, accommodating girls, are afraid of sounding too strong, too loud, too unconventional, or simply too much like the self we're afraid to reveal to the world. Most of us have at least an inkling of what form our writing voice should take, if only we might find the courage to reveal it. Nava Atlas
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Women authors who dare to write the way they want to write, not the way society expects them to write, can be their own worst enemy. The author says: "It’s a bit like the dilemma of a woman who loves to dance and who wants to be a prima ballerina. To succeed in this career, she needs to be strong and beautiful and graceful at the same time. It’s wonderful that she loves dancing so much, but she must also face up to the fact that her natural voice is at odds with the voice society expects of her."

Source: The Literary Ladies Guide To The Writing Life

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