Creative Writing Vs. Copywriting
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in writing you may be unaware of the differences between creative writing and copywriting. While there are a lot of similarities between these two there are also some critical differences. Here is an overview of how creative writing and copywriting differ.
It’s all about the end goal.
In creative writing, the goal is to take the reader on a journey. This can be done by transporting them to different worlds, introducing complex characters, or encouraging them to contemplate certain questions.
However, in copywriting, the goal is to convey a message in the most straightforward way possible. Good copywriting does not leave anything up to interpretation. Therefore, literary devices such as allegory or symbolism may prove helpful in novels or screenplays, but they will only muddle the message of good copywriting.
Time is of the essence.
While industry standards for length exist, ultimately, creative writers have the liberty to control the length of their work. Not having time constraints also gives creative writers the freedom to elaborate on descriptive language or follow a stream of consciousness.
Unfortunately, the same luxuries are not afforded to copywriters. Copywriters are typically held to time limits and word counts set forth by advertisers. A copywriter could have as few as six words to convey a message leaving little room for flowery language.
You don’t have to choose one or the other.
While copywriting and creative writing serve different purposes, that doesn’t mean you have to choose to exclusively write one or the other. In fact, practicing copywriting can significantly benefit your creative writing and visa versa. All good writing needs to convey a message and grab and hold the attention of the listener/reader
While good copywriting needs to convey a message, it also needs to grab and hold the attention of the listener/reader. A creative writing background can benefit a copywriter. Great advertisements typically have a funny or intriguing opening line and emotionally connect with the audience. Merely reciting facts (no matter how clear they may be) will ultimately lose that attention. If you’re more experienced in creative writing, be sure to tap into that when writing copy.
And while there are no limitations on where your creative writing can take you, it is essential that your writing is clear. Transporting your readers to faraway lands is great, but if you use excessive wording, they may get lost mid-trip.
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