21.10: The Cold Open- Voice

21.10: The Cold Open- Voice

From Writing Excuses by Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler

March 8, 2026 · 24 min · Season 10 · Episode 21

About this episode

The episode discusses how a voice-driven cold open can effectively engage readers through various techniques.

A cold open can hook a reader with nothing more than voice. In this episode, our hosts explore what makes a voice-driven opening work — cadence, rhythm, authority, and a clear reason to care. We break down how aesthetic voice differs from mechanical POV, how to avoid purple prose, and why strong openings often act as both filter and lens for the right reader. From epic poetry to pop songs, from audiobook accents to grocery-store monologues, we share practical ways to hear your prose more clearly. Voice, used with intention, can pull readers in before a single thing explodes. Homework: Choose three distinct voices you know well — for example, a celebrity with a strong cadence, someone in your life who tells great stories, and another recognizable personality. Write a simple scene (like going to the grocery store to buy eggs) in each voice. Notice what changes in rhythm, word choice, focus, and emotional framing. Final WXR Cruise! Our final WXR cruise sets sail for Alaska in September 2026—get your tickets here! Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Erin Roberts, DongWon Song, and Mary Robinette Kowal. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and…

People in this episode

Hosts: Erin Roberts, DongWon Song, Mary Robinette Kowal

Topics covered

  • cold open
  • voice
  • writing techniques
  • narrative style
  • reader engagement

Keywords

  • cold open
  • voice
  • writing
  • narrative
  • reader engagement
  • cadence
  • rhythm

Sponsors

MasterClass, Quince, Talkiatry

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