The best way to learn how to write is to write. Okay, we've all heard that a million times, but it's true. Write, then give that material to someone who knows how to write, and let that person show you what you're doing right and what you're doing wrong. Because I don't think all of the tips in the world mean anything or really sink in until someone points out what works and what doesn't.
I'm not trying to plug my editing service, because I'm kind of swamped right now. But because of my service, I'm coming to understand that these writing tips are just Charlie Brown's parents until the writer is led to his mistakes. Ah, yes. Now I get it.
Just do it.
Right on. Or write on. The other problem with too much craft theory and too little writing is that the craft starts to turn into a template and it dictates decisions that the substance of what you have to say should be driving. I'm not sure I expressed that well, but I feel it quite passionately.
ReplyDeleteKevin, yes! I'm starting to rethink how people might best learn to write. And maybe the writing should come first, then the shaping of that writing. Which is kind of what you were saying.
ReplyDeleteYou may not want to plug your editing services, but I will.
ReplyDeleteSeriously! And you don't charge enough, by the way.
Likari -- aww, thank you! but really, it's tough today. a writer could pay $800 - 3,000 for an edit when there's a good chance an advance from an indie will be less than 5K. years ago, almost every writer i knew supported herself by writing. now i know very few writers who can support themselves. if the freelance edit is thought of as an education rather than money spent on a particular book, then i think it might be easier to justify.
ReplyDeleteanne
Anne wrote: if the freelance edit is thought of as an education rather than money spent on a particular book, then i think it might be easier to justify.
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I can see this. It's certainly less expensive than going to a conference!
And the writer should be learning from the edits, otherwise it would just be sad, ha.
One can only edit one's self to a point. After that a writer needs an experienced, professional eye to learn what works and what doesn't.
ReplyDeleteAnd that is one fabulous photo.
bernita,
ReplyDeletei love that photo. :D
anne