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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Monday, February 12, 2024

A Handbook of Short Story Writing, by John T. Frederick (John Towner), Foreword by Olivia Salter

A Handbook of Short Story Writing

 

A Handbook of Short Story Writing

 

by John T. Frederick (John Towner)

 

FOREWORD BY OLIVIA SALTER


In our age of endless distractions and fleeting attention spans, there remains a timeless art form that captivates and inspires readers across generations—the short story. Its brevity, precision, and unwavering ability to evoke rich emotions make it a powerful literary medium. And within the realm of short story writing, few have delved as deeply into the craft as the esteemed John T. Frederick.

As I hold this invaluable handbook in my hands, I am struck by the immense knowledge and passion that Frederick brought to the art of writing. His distinguished career as a writer and editor, coupled with his unconditional love for storytelling, shines through every page. Within these chapters, Frederick generously shares his wisdom, offering valuable insights, techniques, and practical advice that will guide aspiring writers on their journey towards mastering the elusive art of the short story.

In this comprehensive handbook, Frederick explores the fundamental elements of storytelling with meticulous detail. From crafting compelling dialogue and developing nuanced characters to building tension and creating vivid settings, he leaves no stone unturned. Drawing upon classic works of literature, Frederick illuminates the essence of storytelling through a wealth of examples, urging writers to embrace the power of language and the art of storytelling to convey profound human experiences.

Yet, beyond technical advice, this handbook resonates on a deeper level. Frederick hones in on the emotional core of storytelling, emphasizing the need for authenticity and vulnerability. He invites writers to explore the depths of their own past, observing that the richest stories often derive from personal experiences and raw emotions. Through his guidance, aspiring authors are encouraged to reflect on the essence of being human and to infuse their stories with genuine humanity.

Moreover, Frederick's keen understanding of the writing process allows him to address the hurdles and challenges that writers face along their creative journey. Whether it be the dreaded writer's block, self-doubt, or the daunting task of revising and editing, he offers invaluable strategies to overcome these obstacles, encouraging writers to persist in their pursuit of excellence.

It is clear that this handbook is a labor of love—a testament to John T. Frederick's unwavering dedication to the craft of storytelling. His words will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light for aspiring writers and a source of inspiration for seasoned veterans. As we traverse the pages of this invaluable guide, we embark on a transformative adventure, one that will challenge us, enlighten us, and ultimately lead us to become better storytellers.

May this handbook find its way into the hands of all those who dream of unraveling the beauty of the short story. Let us be guided by John T. Frederick, a writer whose legacy lives on through his words, seeking to create stories that will endure long after they are read.

Olivia Salter

02/12/2023



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Also see:

πŸ‘‰Free Writing Resources
πŸ‘‰Fiction Writing books at Amazon

πŸ‘‰How to Write a Short Story: 10 Good Tips for Writers

 

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