10 Rules on How to be a Writer
I ran across this (see below next to the bullet point) in my feeds this morning – genre writer John C. Wright (author of nine books and numerous short stories) offers up his…
… wise, wise words and although perhaps less specific to submitting one’s material to an agent, he’s bang on the button in oh, so many ways. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned wordsterlooking for a sale or an agent, take heed!
Wise words indeed. “Your readers are your employers. Respect and fear them.” You might want to read Misery…
Actually, I have an addendum, which is not to read about Annie Wilkes (although it’s fun) but to read Stephen King’s “On Writing”. Or just do what John Wright says.
Also, if you’re lucky enough to be writing at home instead of squeezing it into a rushed commute-plus-day-job hell, always check your email and interesting blogs AFTER your writing for the day is done. Luckily, I obeyed my own rule today.
July 17th, 2009 at 4:21 pm »And that, folks, is news direct from the cliff face! Thanks John!
And I concur – King’s “On Writing” is essential reading for all writers, would-be or otherwise. And in fact it’s essential reading for anyone with an interest in the craft, editors, agents, readers… whoever!
July 17th, 2009 at 5:49 pm »Excellent commandments! I will bear in mind when I do a workshop for new swriters later this year.
I also heartily recommend “THE FAITH OF A WRITER: LIFE, CRAFT, ART” by Joyce Carol Oates. The best book I have read on being a writer.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:46 pm »I particularly enjoyed the 11th commandment, with which I am well versed.
I also concur re King’s “On Writing”. Another book I found useful was Robert McKee’s “Story”. (Even though geared toward screenwriting as opposed to novel writing, I learned quite a bit about the art of storytelling from my reading of it).
July 20th, 2009 at 10:50 pm »