Read Like A Writer

There are two ways to learn how to write fiction: by reading it and by writing it. Yes, you can learn lots about writing stories in workshops, in writing classes and writing groups, at writers' conferences. You can learn technique and process by reading the dozens of books like this one on fiction writing and by reading articles in writers' magazines. But the best teachers of fiction are the great works of fiction themselves. You can learn more about the structure of a short story by reading Anton Chekhov's 'Heartache' than you can in a semester of Creative Writing 101. If you read like a writer, that is, which means you have to read everything twice, at least. When you read a story or novel the first time, just let it happen. Enjoy the journey. When you've finished, you know where the story took you, and now you can go back and reread, and this time notice how the writer reached that destination. Notice the choices he made at each chapter, each sentence, each word. (Every word is a choice.) You see now how the transitions work, how a character gets across a room. All this time you're learning. You loved the central character in the story, and now you can see how the writer presented the character and rendered her worthy of your love and attention. The first reading is creative—you collaborate with the writer in making the story. The second reading is critical.


John Dufresne, from his book, The Lie That Tells A Truth: A Guide to Writing Fiction

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Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Foreword of "To Kill a Mockingbird" Written by Harper Lee, Foreword by Olivia Salter

 
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Foreword of "To Kill a Mockingbird"  Written by Harper Lee,  Foreword by Olivia Salter

 



"To Kill a Mockingbird," a timeless and poignant masterpiece penned by the remarkable Harper Lee, has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape since its publication in 1960. A work that transcends generations, it continues to captivate readers with its powerful exploration of innocence, injustice, and the complexities of societal prejudices.

Harper Lee, born Nelle Harper Lee in 1926, crafted a novel that resonates with unparalleled depth and emotional resonance. Though a native of Monroeville, Alabama, Lee's narrative in "To Kill a Mockingbird" transcends the boundaries of her small Southern hometown, confronting universal truths about humanity's capacity for both love and cruelty.

Set during the 1930s in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of young Jean Louise "Scout" Finch. Scout, alongside her brother Jem and their friend Dill, embarks on a journey of discovery that exposes the harsh realities of racism, prejudice, and the elusive pursuit of justice. Through Scout's authentic voice, Lee subtly imparts the importance of empathy and compassion as she navigates a society divided by color and marred by fear.

At the heart of this captivating tale is Atticus Finch, a wise and principled lawyer who serves as a moral compass amidst the tumultuous climate of racial injustice. Atticus's unwavering commitment to truth and equality, symbolized by his unwavering defense of Tom Robinson, an African American accused of a heinous crime, challenges the very fabric of society. Rendered with vivid detail and nuanced characterization, Atticus Finch has become an iconic figure, embodying the qualities of integrity, honor, and parental guidance.

Harper Lee's prose resonates with eloquence and grace, effortlessly diving into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of prejudice. Through her captivating storytelling, she masterfully exposes the universal human struggle for understanding, acceptance, and compassion. Her evocative descriptions bring the sultry ambiance of the Deep South to life, immersing readers in the vivid tapestry of Maycomb and its inhabitants.

"To Kill a Mockingbird" is a profound meditation on the human condition, examining the repercussions of inequality, the destructive power of ignorance, and the courage required to challenge societal norms. Lee deftly reminds us that our actions and their consequences shape not only individuals but also the fabric of our communities. Through her narrative, she urges us to reflect upon our own biases, confront our deepest fears, and strive towards a world where justice and empathy triumph over prejudice and hatred.

While Harper Lee's magnum opus explores sobering and uncomfortable themes, it does so with a delicate touch and an undeniable sense of hope. Behind the darkness lies an enduring message of resilience, compassion, and the enduring spirit of mockingbirds, those individuals whose innocence and purity should be protected at all costs.

As we embark on this journey through the pages of To Kill a Mockingbird, let us honor Harper Lee's legacy by plumbing the depths of our souls, challenging our preconceived notions, and embracing the transformative power of empathy. May this timeless masterpiece continue to ignite conversations, spark change, and inspire generations to come.
 

Olivia Salter

10/17/2023


Read the book below, or buy "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee at Amazon.

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