"On Writing"

When I found out we would be reading Stephen King’s book “On Writing,” I was annoyed partly because I’m not a big fan of his, partly because I had to buy it, and mostly because I have read how-to-write books before and they are all tripe -- filled with jargon and abstract nonsense about coming up with story ideas, writing ten-page character sketches, and developing plot structures…ugh. Besides, I had come to the conclusion that writing is like singing or sex appeal; you either have it or you don’t.

But, when I started to read, I found that King does it differently. The first chapter doesn’t explain how to unlock the treasure chest of stories hidden in my mind or tell me how to write from the heart. In fact, he explains in his forward that most books about writing are “filled with bullshit.” God bless you, King. I think I will read on now.

So, with King avoiding the metaphorical and symbolic jabberwocky that plagues other books of this type, “On Writing” instead is filled with practical examples of what he does before, after, and during “his daily work” of writing. The book has a conversational narrative and is enjoyable to read -- traits I find necessary if I want to learn anything. Here are just a few of the gems King bestows.

Gem one: Write, write, write.

I don’t write nearly enough, and I don’t have a set time for writing-- two things that will change from now on. As for King, he writes 2,000 words every morning and doesn’t get up from his chair until it’s done. He writes on his birthday. He writes on Christmas. He writes on the fourth of July.

“If I don’t write everyday…the tale’s narrative cutting edge starts to rust and I begin to lose hold on the story’s plot and pace. Worst of all, the excitement of spinning something new begins to fade. The work starts to feel like work and for most writers that is the smooch of death. Writing is at its best -- always, always, always -- when its kind of inspired play for the writer,” writes King.

I think its important to note here that, with the exception of a few short stories, I mostly write nonfiction news or feature pieces. Nevertheless, I feel what King says still applies to me. If I’m working on a feature piece, I will write until I am happy with it. If I’m not happy, I will write some more. I will no longer let it spoil on the shelf.

Also, by writing everyday, no matter if it’s fiction or non-fiction, I am practicing. I am finding new ways to transition. I am strengthening my vocabulary. If you want to learn to cook, get in the kitchen. If you want to learn to juggle, start throwing some fruit in the air. Whatever it is, you just got to do it.


Gem two: Read, read, read.

I think it is safe to say that King is modest when he says he is a slow reader-- he takes in about 70 books a year. 70. I read about 20 in that time, and, during the school year, I reserve my reading for mostly text books and newspapers, using the excuse that I just don’t have the time for anything else-- so lame. I am going to school to be a writer. Reading should be, and from now on, will be one of my top priorities. I will use King’s advice and listen to audio books, read in waiting rooms, read with food in my mouth, and read before bed. The excuses are over.

As King puts it:

“The real importance of reading is that it creates an ease and intimacy with the process of writing…constant reading will put you into a place…where you can write eagerly and without self consciousness…the more you read the less apt you are to making a fool of yourself with you pen and your word processor.”

Gem three: 2nd draft = 1st draft - 10%

Formula: 2nd draft = 1st draft -10% was scribbled on a rejected story submission King received when he was senior in high school, and he has heeded this advice ever since. Although some writers are natural “taker-outers,“ King says he has always been a natural “putter- inner.” I am also a “putter-inner. I have a tendency to over explain and to think that adding more will make it better -- like throwing shit on top of a shit pile is going to take the smell away. So, I am making a commitment to try and follow this formula (most of my stories usually go over the recommended word count anyway). From now on, if it isn’t moving the story along, adios.

“What the formula taught me is that every story is collapsible to some degree. If you can’t get out 10 percent while retaining the basic story and flavor, you’re not trying too hard. The effect of judicious cutting is immediate and often amazing -- literary Viagra. You’ll feel it,” King writes.

There are so many more insights in this book There are so many more things I could bring up and mention. Instead of running this on and on, I think I will end by pouncing on one of my favorite passages in the book.

“I never set a single word down on paper with the thought of getting paid for it… I have written because it fulfilled me. Maybe it paid off the mortgage on the house and got the kids through college, but those things were on the side-- I did it for the buzz. I did it for the pure joy of the thing. And if you can do it for the joy, you can do it forever.”

(Photo credit: this is your brain on lithium. Flikr)