Law #4: Always Say Less Than Necessary — A Writer's Guide

The fourth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Always say less than necessary," is a masterclass in the power of restraint. For writers, this law translates into crafting compelling stories, creating sharp dialogue, and precisely navigating the professional world. Saying less isn’t about withholding—it’s about knowing what to leave unsaid to create intrigue, efficiency, and impact.

Let’s discuss how this law can elevate your writing career and storytelling craft.

Saying Less in Storytelling

In fiction, less is often more. Overexplaining or overwriting can dull your prose, weaken tension, and insult your reader’s intelligence. Mastering restraint helps you craft lean, evocative, and memorable stories.

1. Show, Don’t Tell:

One of the oldest and most valuable pieces of writing advice aligns perfectly with this law. Instead of explaining every detail, let your characters’ actions, dialogue, and choices reveal their thoughts and emotions.

Example: Instead of writing, “John was nervous,” show him tapping his fingers against the desk, glancing at the clock every few seconds. The reader will feel his anxiety without being told.

Application: When editing, look for areas where you’ve told the reader something you could instead show through subtle action or dialogue.

2. Trim the Fat:

Brevity creates impact. Too many words can overwhelm the reader or dilute the power of a scene.

Example: Hemingway’s six-word story—“For sale: baby shoes, never worn”—packs an emotional punch because of what’s left unsaid. The reader fills in the blanks.

Application: During revisions, challenge yourself to cut redundant phrases and unnecessary descriptions. Ask, “Is this sentence doing enough work to stay?”

3. Create Tension Through Silence:

What characters don’t say can be as important as what they do. Subtext in dialogue leaves room for interpretation and adds depth.

Example: In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet’s restrained, witty exchanges with Mr. Darcy carry unspoken tension, keeping readers hooked.

Application: Use pauses, misdirection, and implication in dialogue to create emotional depth and complexity.

Saying Less in the Professional World

Navigating the publishing industry requires strategic communication. In queries, interviews, or social media, saying too much can hurt your chances or overshadow your work.

1. Writing Query Letters:

A query letter is your pitch to agents and publishers. Concise, focused communication is key.

Example: Instead of a bloated synopsis, craft a sharp hook: “When a grieving detective uncovers a conspiracy tied to his wife’s murder, he must decide if the truth is worth losing everything.”

Application: Stick to the essentials: who the protagonist is, what they want, and what stands in their way. Leave just enough unanswered to intrigue the agent.

2. Interviews and Public Speaking:

When discussing your work, resist the urge to overexplain. Let your audience discover layers through reading rather than giving everything away upfront.

Example: If asked about a story’s theme, say, “It’s about how far we’ll go to protect what we love,” rather than a detailed breakdown of every subplot.

Application: Prepare succinct, engaging answers to common questions. Practice saying less while still leaving an impression.

3. Social Media Presence:

Oversharing online can dilute your brand or create unnecessary controversy. Focus on sharing value and intriguing updates.

Example: Instead of a long-winded rant about industry frustrations, post, “Every rejection gets me closer to the right yes. Onward.”

Application: Use social media strategically. Engage meaningfully, but avoid airing grievances or revealing too much about works-in-progress.

Saying Less to Build an Audience

Readers love to engage with stories and authors, but the element of mystery keeps them hooked. Saying less invites curiosity and fosters a deeper connection.

1. Tease New Projects:

Drop hints that spark interest instead of spilling every detail about your next book.

Example: Post, “I’m working on something that blends mythology and modern suspense… more details soon.” This leaves room for anticipation.

Application: Create a sense of excitement around your work by sharing just enough to intrigue.

2. Encourage Reader Interpretation:

When interacting with your audience, allow them to find their own meanings in your work.

Example: If a reader asks what a specific ending means, respond with, “What do you think?” This invites discussion and deepens engagement.

Application: Avoid over-explaining your intentions. Let your readers own their interpretations.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While saying less is powerful, it’s important to avoid extremes. Here’s how to balance restraint:

Don’t Be Vague Without Purpose:

Mystery is compelling, but too vague can confuse or alienate your audience.

Solution: Ensure enough clarity for readers to stay grounded while leaving room for intrigue.

Avoid Coming Off as Aloof:

Saying less doesn’t mean being unapproachable. Engage warmly and authentically.

Solution: Balance brevity with sincerity. Be concise, but show genuine interest in connecting with others.

Don’t Undersell Your Work:

While brevity is key, make sure you’re communicating your story’s strengths effectively.

Solution: Practice pitching your work in a way that’s both concise and compelling.

Conclusion: The Power of Restraint

Law #4, "Always say less than necessary," reminds us that words carry weight. As writers, we wield the power of language, and knowing when to hold back is as important as knowing when to speak. Whether crafting a story, pitching to an agent, or engaging with your audience, restraint can create intrigue, clarity, and impact.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #5, "So much depends on reputation—guard it with your life," and how your professional image shapes your success as a writer. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.