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

Header

Liquid Story Binder XE by Black Obelisk Software

Disable Copy Paste

Amazon Quick Linker

Sunday, February 4, 2024

Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade? by N. Bryllion Fagin (PDF) Foreword By Olivia Salter


Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade? by N. Bryllion Fagin (PDF)

Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?

 

by N. Bryllion Fagin (PDF)

 

FOREWORD BY OLIVIA SALTER


Short story writing has long been a captivating and versatile form of literature, captivating readers with its ability to convey powerful narratives in a condensed format. But what lies at the heart of this craft? Is short story writing an artistic endeavor that requires inherent skill and imagination, or is it something that can be learned and honed through trade-like techniques?

In "Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?" N. Bryllion Fagin delves deep into this age-old discussion, offering valuable insights and perspectives that shed light on the intricate nature of this compelling literary form. With a commendable blend of scholarly analysis and practical advice, Fagin navigates the reader through the nuances of short story writing, examining both the artistry and the craftsmanship required to succeed in this pursuit.

Fagin brilliantly captures the essence of short stories as a means of capturing fleeting moments and evoking powerful emotions within a limited space. Each story, like a brushstroke on a canvas, holds the power to paint vivid pictures that resonate with readers for a lifetime. Fagin's exploration of the artistic aspect emphasizes the role of creativity and intuition in crafting impactful tales, reminding us of the beauty and magic that lie within the realm of storytelling.

However, Fagin also acknowledges the practical side of short story writing. Like any trade, there are techniques, strategies, and tools that can be adopted to refine one's skills. Through meticulous research and astute observations, Fagin uncovers these underlying structures that enhance the narrative flow, the character development, and the overall impact of a short story. The author's ability to dissect these elements and present them to the reader in a comprehensive manner is a testament to their profound understanding of the craft.

"Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?" is not merely a theoretical discourse, but a practical guide for aspiring writers and literary enthusiasts alike. Fagin's wealth of knowledge is shared generously through insightful tips and prompts that encourage experimentation and growth. By providing a range of examples from renowned short story authors and their contrasting approaches, Fagin contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the creative process, igniting inspiration in the minds of those who long to tell their own tales.

Whether you are a seasoned writer seeking to refine your techniques or someone who wishes to explore short story writing for the first time, this book serves as an invaluable resource. Fagin's eloquent prose, combined with their passion for the subject, creates an engaging and thought-provoking read that invites readers to critically examine their own writing practice while developing the skills necessary to excel in this captivating craft.

In "Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?", N. Bryllion Fagin elevates our understanding of short story-writing by deftly merging the realms of artistry and trade. By doing so, they inspire us to appreciate the inherent beauty of storytelling while emphasizing the necessity of honing our craft. I am honored to introduce you to this remarkable work, confident that its pages will empower and enlighten all who embark on the fruitful journey of short story creation.

 

Olivia Salter

02/04/2024


The PDF might take a minute to load. Or, click to download PDF.

If your Web browser is not configured to display PDF files. No worries, just click here to download the PDF file.

 

Also see:

👉Free Writing Resources
👉Fiction Writing books at Amazon

👉How to Write a Short Story: 10 Good Tips for Writers

 

Posted by at
Labels: , , ,

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)