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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📚Reading as a Writer by Olivia Salter


Reading as a writer is a crucial practice for any aspiring author. By analyzing the work of writers, you can gain valuable insights into the craft of writing and learn techniques that you can apply to your own work. Reading allows you to study different writing styles, narrative structures, and character development, giving you a better understanding of what makes a compelling story.

When you read as a writer, you pay attention to how the author constructs sentences, develops characters, and builds tension. You can learn from their use of language, dialogue, and descriptive details and incorporate these techniques into your own writing. By studying the structure of a novel or short story, you can understand how the author creates a sense of pacing and keeps the reader engaged.

Furthermore, reading as a writer helps you to recognize patterns and tropes in storytelling, allowing you to subvert expectations and create fresh, original work. By exposing yourself to a variety of genres and authors, you can expand your creative horizons and develop your own unique voice as a writer.

In addition, reading can inspire you and spark new ideas for your own writing. By immersing yourself in the work of talented authors, you can fuel your creativity and overcome writer's block. You may discover new techniques or approaches that you hadn't considered before, helping you to grow as a writer.

Overall, reading as a writer is an essential practice for improving your craft and honing your skills. By studying the work of others, you can learn from their successes and mistakes, ultimately becoming a more skilled and insightful writer yourself. So the next time you pick up a book, remember to read critically and analytically, and use what you learn to enhance your own writing. 

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