Qualitative_data_analysis

worrying unduly about the connections between them. Why does the shoe fit only
Cinderella’s foot? Because that is what fits the story line. The story works as an art
form, not as an explanation of events (cf. Burgess 1982).
In producing an account, therefore, we have to treat as problematic what in
stories only serve as props. Because we are dealing with human beings with particular
biographies, and social processes which are historically specific, we can learn from
the techniques of story-telling. However, we must also take care to avoid its pitfalls,
for otherwise our account may obscure more than it reveals. Story-telling techniques
can be used to enhance analysis, but not as a substitute for it. Our choice of
techniques must be guided by the object of our research and our purpose in
presenting an account (Sayer 1992:262). Our overriding concern must be to
produce an account which is adequate as well as accessible.
• Engage interest through description and dramatization
• Trace the evolution of our account
• Develop overall coherence
• Select key themes
• Use simple language
• Make concepts and connections explicit
PRODUCING AN ACCOUNT 255
Before we leave the issue of accessibility, I must recommend a book by Becker
(1986) on writing for social scientists for a fuller discussion of issues (including the
use of metaphors) which I can only touch on here. As well as noting some of the
qualities of good writing, such as the avoidance of abstract nouns, passive
constructions and the like, Becker emphasizes the importance of reviewing and
editing what you have written. Why use twenty words when two will do? We may use
twenty words in our first draft, as we struggle to express some bashful idea through a
process akin to free association or brain storming. But there is no excuse for
retaining those twenty words, once the idea has been brought to light and we have
had an opportunity to revise our thinking (and writing) to render it more precise
(and concise). Unless you are one of those rare geniuses like Mozart whose
compositions come original and complete in every detail, redrafting is essential to
eliminate the needless repetition and unnecessary clutter associated with creative
writing.
If editing—and re-editing—offers the key to using clear and direct language, the
computer offers the key to editing. As Becker suggests, the computer can change the
way we think and write. This is because the editing facilities it provides are so
powerful. Because the ‘on-screen’ text can be amended instantly and with ease, the