'On Writing' is a revealing and practical look at the writer's craft, comprising many of the necessary tools of the trade for any aspiring author. It is a gem of a resource and entirely worth its purchase price in my opinion. It is noteworthy to relate that this is NOT is a 'how-to' book on crafting novels and short stories. Although Mr. King provides many nuggets of wisdom for aspiring writers throughout his book, he makes it clear that every author must forge their own pathway toward their goals, whatever they may be. In other words, there is no such thing as a blueprint for success in his vocation.
Because good stories often write themselves, in most situations it is wise for an author to 'go with the flow' rather that obsessively follow a rigid plot or storyline schematic in their mind. Every writer needs their own muse to kindle their own imagination. He compares the discovery of a good story idea with digging up a fossil; the quality of the fossil(story) is ultimately dependent on the skill of the author to delicately extract it from the earth and polish it up for appreciative museum goers. (I have improvised a little bit on his analogy, but I think it fits).
On Writing is a compelling, forthright narrative on what obstacles aspiring authors might expect to encounter on their personal journeys toward self-fulfillment. It is also a tough love manual for writers peppered with anecdotal stories of Mr Kings interesting life along the way. I found it illuminating and have a far greater understanding of the craft after reading this book.
.....There are a plethora of takeaways from this fine reference, far too many to include in my review. I will attempt to prioritize the more important ones for myself and relay them to anyone kind enough to read my review on Amazon. If I have neglected to mention any of value, they have probably been mentioned or discussed before in countless other reviews of this work.
Takeaway 1--Omit needless words, adverbs, the passive voice, and excessive description whenever possible.
Takeaway 2--Imitation often precedes creation. SK related how as a child he often copied stories from authors he enjoyed verbatim; sometimes omitting and sometimes adding story fragments of his own creation. There is no shame in imitation if it is part of the learning process!
Takeaway 3--King lists his wife/marriage and his physical health as his two keys for success. The message for aspiring authors should be to exercise regularly and marry someone who is both positive and supporting of your endeavors.
Takeaway 4--Read a lot and write a lot. The art of description is a learned skill that develops and improves with copious reading and voluminous writing. There is no substitute for time invested in this make-or-break skill set.
Takeaway 5--Keep your story chronological whenever possible. Flashback sequences sometimes work well in the movies or on television, but often come across as corny or cliche in novels..
Takeaway 6–Find a network of trustworthy individuals to read and give feedback on your first draft in its rawest form.
.......Affably written and educational, this well organized book is a delight to read. There were several revelations in this book, the most important one revealed as Mr.King recounted his near-fatal accident in 1999(he was hit by a drunk driver in a van while out for his afternoon walk). He professes that life isn't a support system for art --the reverse is actually true. Art is a support system for life. Mr King recounts vividly how the inseparable link between his writing and his life helped motivate him during the many months of his painful recuperation. My favorite quote of his is near the end of the book:
“Writing isn't about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it's about enriching the lives of those who read your work, and enriching your own life, as well.”
I cannot recommend this inspirational and entertaining book highly enough to readers. Pubished in 2001? Seems like it was written yesterday!
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Popular Highlights in this book
“When you write a story, you’re telling yourself the story,” he said. “When you rewrite, your main job is taking out all the things that are not the story.”Highlighted by 15,268 Kindle readers- Remember that the basic rule of vocabulary is use the first word that comes to your mind, if it is appropriate and colorful.Highlighted by 11,118 Kindle readers
- If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.Highlighted by 10,149 Kindle readers
- It starts with this: put your desk in the corner, and every time you sit down there to write, remind yourself why it isn’t in the middle of the room. Life isn’t a support-system for art. It’s the other way around.Highlighted by 9,051 Kindle readers
- “When you write a story, you’re telling yourself the story,” he said. “When you rewrite, your main job is taking out all the things that are not the story.”Highlighted by 8,501 Kindle readers
About the author
Read a lot, write a lot, 2nd draft=1st draft - 10%
Even if you aren't a write I suggest this book. It contains an insight of his life growing up until now. There are so many things about him that I had no idea. His writing style is truly 1 of a kind and anyone trying to mimic it will fall short. But, he provides necessary tools to add to a writers tool box and explains how to use them. I didn't feel like I was being lectured, more like I was sitting down with him and having a regular conversation. I've noticed in many of his books he references H.P Lovecraft so I bought a book that contains many of his stories. I can't wait to peek into the mind of someone that inspired the infamous Stephen King. In the back of this book -On Writing - he gives lists of books that he has read and loves. I recommend reading this book cover to cover because there's plenty of lessons from the dedication to the back cover.I included pictures of a small portion of important advice. (Yes I highlight and take notes)10 out of 10.
Top reviews from other countries
- Kindle CustomerReviewed in the United Kingdom on September 26, 2024
A Really to the Point Guide on What It Takes to Write
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- Mitul PatelReviewed in India on March 28, 2024
Provides practical help and spiritual reassurance needed to nurture a writing life
