Writing a letter of sympathy
This could be a personal letter to someone you know well or
it could be that someone you know only slightly has been
bereaved. (See Figure 18.)
◆ Be sympathetic but not sentimental.
◆ Don’t patronise.
◆ Don’t overdo flattery of the deceased.
Requesting information
Whether you are asking for information about a place, a
person or transport times, keep to the point. Don’t include
unnecessary details. List your requirements anddoremem-
ber to enclose an SAE. (See Figure 19.)
Sending letters to newspapers and magazines
These should be addressed to the editor. Unless it is a very
small publication or a local one, you can find out the name of
the editor by looking in the latest edition ofThe Writers’ &
Artists’ Year Bookin your local library. If you wish to write
to your local paper, phone to find out the name of the editor.
Don’t make your letter too long as editors have little space
and a short letter is more likely to be published. (See Figure
20.)
Writing letters of complaint
These are the most difficult letters to write. You must make
sure you get your facts right. It is a good idea not to write the
letter when you are angry. You may say things you will
regret later. You should draft and redraft your letter until
142 / PART TWO: ENGLISH IN ACTION