Writing, when properly managed, (as you may be sure I think mine is) is but a different name for conversation

Writing, when properly managed, (as you may be sure I think mine is) is but a different name for conversation

Laurence Sterne, the renowned author of the 18th century, was a master of the art of conversation in his writing. His most famous work, "The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman," is a prime example of how writing can be transformed into a lively and engaging conversation with the reader.

Sterne believed that writing, when properly managed, is essentially a form of conversation. He saw the act of writing as a way to engage with the reader, to draw them in and make them feel as though they were a part of the narrative. In his works, Sterne often breaks the fourth wall, directly addressing the reader and inviting them to participate in the story.

One of the key ways in which Sterne achieves this conversational tone in his writing is through his use of humor and wit. He employs a playful and irreverent style that is reminiscent of a witty and engaging conversation with a friend. Sterne's writing is filled with digressions, asides, and tangents that mimic the natural flow of conversation. He jumps from topic to topic, weaving in anecdotes and observations that keep the reader entertained and engaged.

Sterne also uses a variety of literary devices to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy in his writing. He often employs first-person narration, allowing the reader to see the world through the eyes of the protagonist. This creates a sense of intimacy and connection between the reader and the characters, making the story feel more like a personal conversation than a distant narrative.