Stephen follows the K.I.S.S. principle here, Keep It Simple Stupid, and it serves the book well.
The
first part of this book talks about how he became an author. This
section was not only interesting, but also gives the reader an example
of Stephen's writing in general as he explains his past.
The on
writing and what writing is sections are fun to read and easy to
understand. There is not a terrible amount of detail or examples, which
may annoy some readers, but if you are just looking for general concepts
it is more than adequate.
The On Writing / What Writing Is section of this book can be summarized pretty simply:
Being a drunk/addict does not help make you a better writer.
Art is a support system for life, not the other way around.
Writing is telepathy.
Read a lot and write a lot. This will help build a toolbox of skills, grammar, vocab, etc. Need to write a lot to be good.
Kill the passive voice.
Kill adverbs.
Situation trumps plot (i.e. stuck in a car, big crazy dog outside, what now?).
Don't force the plot, have the characters react and adapt the plot accordingly. Make it believable.
Use simple words and make the characters speak like real people, swearing etc.
Don't make strange connections for descriptions (google Fifty Shades Generator for examples)
Let the dialogue speak for itself, the old show don't tell.
Write with the door close, no distractions
Second draft = first draft - 10%
Take
6 weeks off between first and second draft, don't touch it. Everyone
has their own editing process, but time away is a must.
Again, show don't tell.
I am sure there are many more, but that is a decent summary.
If you consider yourself a writer or a writer-to-be then read this. Even if you know it all hearing it again won't hurt.
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