On writing and baby shoes

I have spent over a decade writing as part of my day job, and have been fortunate to have my work featured in notable scientific journals. Now that I am trying my hand at more creative work, this prescriptive scientific style has been hard to break free from. In writing for pleasure, I strive for a sense of minimalism, of with space only for words which add to the work.

I heard some time ago, a discussion of brevity in creative writing. Hemingway was brought up. I was introduced to baby shoes, a story in a single sentence:

“For sale: baby shoes, never worn”

As the father of two babies born in the NICU, this sentence hit me viscerally. Yet, every time I think about it, I am fascinated that in few words, deep feeling can be conveyed.

I still admit that while I can understand the beauty of this example, I do not possess the capacity to find these elusive golden sentences myself. Perhaps a better way to reach my goal is continual refinement. Thus, I will likely go back to these early pieces often and tweak, trim and beautify as best I can.

Helpful suggestions and criticism are always welcomed.