How to Write an Interesting Letter
How to Write an Interesting Letter. Although it's a dying art, writing letters is still most definitely an art. Making them interesting requires a little craft, a little consideration and a touch of creativity.
1 Do a bit of prep work
Do a bit of prep work, as you would for any piece of art.
2 Gather preceding correspondence with your pen pal
Gather preceding correspondence with your pen pal, photos or news stories, bits of poetry, recipes, sketches, even scraps of material or pressed flowers - whatever would be of interest.
3 Decide on your materials
Decide on your materials. Will your letter be on traditional stationery, or will you use graph paper, sketchbook paper, musical scoring or a card of some sort?
4 Consider telling the news
Consider telling the news in an interesting manner, such as in a poem or song.
5 Keep the journalism rules
Keep the journalism rules in mind for a straight read: who, what, where, when and why.
6 Keep your recipient in mind
Keep your recipient in mind. If he's a fashion-oriented person, describe what Aunt Jewel wore to the Bar Mitzvah, or the feel of the cashmere sweater you just bought. If she's a musician, describe the sidewalk aria you heard.
7 Include pictures
Include pictures, if you have them. Each is worth a thousand words - even if it's a bit fuzzy.
8 Remember that elevates a good letter
Remember that what elevates a good letter to greatness is often analysis of the facts. For example, "His face told me so much more than his words. I felt he was being sincere for only the second time in our lives."
9 Reference a past letter
Reference a past letter if you're answering questions or continuing a saga. "Yes, as a matter of fact I did go to medical school as a result of your advice."
10 Always date a letter
Always date a letter, and note the time and weather if the recipient is in another climate, time zone or country. They might keep it forever.
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