The Creative Writing Handbook
I am taking a creative writing course to aid my writing, but did I actually need to go on this to get published? The course does give you the essential skills to structure a story whether it is as a short story or novel. It gives you the much needed feedback for your weaker pieces and a different perspective on your work and how it is being received by the average reader. But do many authors go down this avenue to get somewhere in the literary world?
Each author I have interviewed seemed to have several things in common, so for those budding writers here is a collection of the best advice I have had from them: my top ten:
- They are always avid readers. They have read since they were little and have continued into adulthood. It is the only way many have had inspiration for their books and have been able in some cases to pinch elements of these books to mould into their own unique take on it. Whenever I ask the question ‘who do you read’, there is generally a long list of people they have read.
- They have not always had an academic background in writing. Many have had no former training and simply have an aptitude to write. Their feedback had obviously come at the point of approaching a publisher.
- It takes discipline. Many authors have a strict schedule, whereby they write a certain amount of words a day, or do their writing once their children have gone to bed, or even take out time to visit the place they wish to write about. It is s common misconception that it is an easy craft; you don’t just sit down and write. You have to put the work in.
- Write! They have often told me just to write. It does not matter what it is, but as long as you’re keeping your creative juices flowing with something fictional then you are on the right track!
- Many writers have had a background in a craft that bears some resemblance to writing, such as a journalist, working in a bookshop or a publishing house and have some idea of the industry and what’s out there already.
- They always have a direct influence. Whether it be a photo or an old diary or an experience. Many authors have to say thanks to something that has happened or being found in their own lives in causing the ignition of an idea for their published work.
- Many of them become involved in writers groups to keep their writing up and to have a constant stream of feedback from many different viewpoints. Having a large network of people to connect with also means that you can work together to pass on useful contacts to one another.
- Travelling often plays a significant role in getting the description of places just right. Being there as opposed to reading about a place in a book is always more valuable to a reader.
- Research! If you are setting the book in years gone by, then research like mad! It is important not get dragged down into information overload; however use subtle devices such as dress and surroundings to gain some idea of when the book is set.
- Every author I interview has a plan for what’s next. It is important that if you have written something and completed it published or not that you do not go stagnant with your writing as this is the worst thing you can do. Like a car if it’s not use will go rusty, so will your predispositions to write!
Hope this helps and good luck!
Female First Lucy Walton