Playwrights Series | Style | National Theatre

The speaker discusses the journey of developing a unique voice as a writer, noting that some people find their voice earlier than others. They describe the process as a "mountain climbing towards the marrying of style and content."

The video highlights that form is always related to content, and writers must choose how to execute and express their ideas. While a writer's underlying style may remain consistent, the form of their work can change significantly over time.

The speaker illustrates this evolution through their own work, moving from naturalistic dialogue to plays experimenting with structure, and finally to an adaptation of a farce, showcasing different styles and forms.

As a verbatim playwright, the speaker explains their strict rule of using only words captured from real people. They believe this approach creates a surprising and engaging experience for the audience, encouraging them to listen more intently and appreciate the nuances of everyday speech.

The video concludes by stressing the importance of truth in writing, regardless of whether it's naturalistic, abstract, or driven by metaphor. Young writers are encouraged to trust themselves and their unique way of expressing truth.