"One day I will find the right words, and they all will be simple." — Jack Kerouac

The Beauty of Simplicity: Finding the Right Words in Writing

Jack Kerouac’s quote, “One day I will find the right words, and they all will be simple,” reflects a deep truth about the writing process. Many writers, especially those just starting, often believe that good writing must be complex, filled with intricate sentences and sophisticated vocabulary. However, Kerouac’s insight cuts to the heart of what truly makes writing powerful: simplicity.

The search for the “right words” is a common struggle for writers. We want to communicate our ideas clearly and effectively, yet we often get caught up in trying to impress or over-explain. Kerouac suggests that the best words, the most impactful ones, are often the simplest. Simplicity in writing isn’t about dumbing down your message—it’s about stripping away unnecessary clutter to reveal the core of what you want to say.

The Power of Simple Language

Simple words carry power because they allow the reader to focus on the meaning behind the language rather than getting lost in it. When you use complex language, you run the risk of alienating your reader or creating unnecessary confusion. But when you write simply, you make your work accessible to a wider audience.

Take, for instance, some of the most enduring works of literature. Many of them are filled with simple, direct language that resonates across generations. Consider Ernest Hemingway’s minimalist style or even the concise power of poetry, where each word is carefully chosen to evoke deep emotions. Simple writing does not mean shallow writing; it often requires more thought and care to communicate complex ideas clearly.

Simple words are often the most direct route to truth. They don’t obscure meaning; they reveal it. When Kerouac speaks of finding the “right words,” he is referring to the idea that once you’ve identified what you truly want to say, you no longer need complex phrases to express it. The message itself becomes clear and pure.

Complexity vs. Simplicity in Writing

Many writers feel the pressure to prove themselves through complexity. Academic environments, literary criticism, and even social media can create the impression that more complex writing is better. But complexity is not synonymous with quality. In fact, complexity for its own sake can detract from a piece’s emotional impact or clarity.

Writing that is overly complicated can overwhelm readers and lose its emotional resonance. It’s easy to use convoluted language to hide behind uncertainty in your ideas. But writing with simplicity forces you to confront the true essence of what you want to communicate. There’s no room for hiding behind elaborate phrases or unnecessary words; you must be clear about your intentions.

Kerouac’s own writing is a perfect example of the power of simple, direct language. In On the Road, his sentences flow with a natural rhythm, capturing the rawness of experience without overwhelming the reader with complexity. His words are often plain, yet they evoke a deep sense of freedom, adventure, and the human spirit.

The Challenge of Simplicity

Though it may sound easy, writing simply is often harder than writing with complexity. It requires a deep understanding of your subject and the confidence to express your ideas without embellishment. Simple writing demands clarity of thought. To write simply, you must first know exactly what you want to say—and that’s often the hardest part of the writing process.

In many ways, simplicity in writing is the result of maturity and experience. When you’re just starting, it’s natural to try to impress with your vocabulary and your command of language. But as you grow as a writer, you begin to realize that the best writing is not about showing off but about connecting with your reader. Simple writing allows you to do that by removing the barriers between you and your audience.

Simplicity also requires trust—trust in yourself as a writer and trust in your reader’s ability to grasp your meaning without excessive explanation. You don’t need to over-explain or over-decorate your sentences. Trust that the words you choose will be enough.

Finding Your Simple Truth

At the core of Kerouac’s quote is the idea that writing is a journey toward truth. The “right words” aren’t just the most grammatically correct or the most beautiful; they are the ones that express the truth of what you’re trying to say. And often, that truth is simple.

For writers, the search for the right words is a lifelong journey. It’s not about finding the most impressive vocabulary or the most elaborate metaphors—it’s about discovering the words that resonate with both you and your reader. It’s about finding a way to communicate your thoughts in a way that feels honest and true.

Sometimes, the right words don’t come easily. They may require rewriting, revising, and cutting back. But when you find them, they will feel effortless and clear. They will speak directly to the heart of what you’re trying to express.

Embracing Simplicity in Your Writing

So how can you embrace simplicity in your own writing? Here are a few tips:

1. Cut the Fluff: After you’ve written a first draft, go back and remove any unnecessary words. Ask yourself if each word is adding to your message. If it’s not, cut it.
2. Focus on Clarity: Always strive for clarity in your writing. If a sentence is confusing or convoluted, simplify it. The clearer your writing, the more powerful it will be.
3. Avoid Jargon: Unless you’re writing for a highly specialized audience, avoid using jargon or overly technical language. Simple, everyday words are often more effective.
4. Read Aloud: Reading your writing aloud can help you spot areas where you’ve overcomplicated things. If a sentence feels clunky or awkward when spoken, it’s probably too complex.
5. Trust Yourself: Have confidence in your ability to express your ideas simply. Don’t feel the need to prove your intelligence or creativity through complex language. Your ideas are powerful enough on their own.

Conclusion: Simplicity as a Path to Connection

Jack Kerouac’s belief in finding the “right words” through simplicity reminds us that great writing isn’t about impressing—it’s about connecting. When we write with simplicity, we invite readers to engage with our ideas without distraction. We create a direct line of communication that allows for true understanding.

The right words aren’t complicated; they’re honest, clear, and impactful. And when we find them, we discover that simplicity is not a limitation but a powerful tool for expression. So, as you continue on your writing journey, remember that the best words are often the simplest—and that simplicity is the key to creating work that resonates.