5 pieces of advice from famous writers

Every writer, be it a novice or an experienced essayist, from time to time questions himself on how to be a good writer. There is a famous quote from William Faulkner on how to be a successful author – “Read, read, read”. He insisted that observing and absorbing as much information as possible will bring out your own unique style and vision.

There are too many books which are dedicated to the explanation of what makes a great writer, but not all of them are good. We decided to gather the list of books authors of which actually became successful in their career. These are the people which we can listen to, as they proved already that what they teach really works. Check out the list of books which are worth reading in order to become a successful writer.

Writing, Marguerite Duras

Writing is a creative process and requires solitude. According to Marguerite Duras, the person who writes a book must always be enveloped in peace. Separation from others is one of the key factors which can help create masterpieces. Silence is important for the creative flow and for immersing in what you write about. Wrong environment distracts you and kills your inspiration which, in its turn, may manifest itself in a writer’s block.

Zen in the Art of Writing, Ray Bradbury

Well-known Ray Bradbury was convinced that quantity will eventually make for quality. He said that there must be a schedule in the work of a writer, for example, 1 story a week, fifty-two stories a year, for five years. No need to wait for an inspiration. The more you write, the more experience you get and the better you become. He said, “Quantity gives experience. From experience alone can quality come.”

From Where You Dream: The Process of Writing Fiction, Robert Olen Butler

This author believed that the writer should get rid of the habit of saying that he’s got an idea for his new piece of work. He said that art does not come from ideas, because ideas, in fact, come from a mind. The aspiring writer must never forget that true sensational works come from the unconsciousness. The art comes from some other place, deep inside of the person. If you learn how to turn your mind off and get connected with the sacred creative part of you, you will inevitably end up with a masterpiece.

Rules for the Dance: A Handbook for Writing and Reading Metrical Verse, Mary Oliver

According to Mary Oliver, the important thing that needs to be stressed out is the necessity of the revision. In case you came up with is a brilliant piece of work and there is no need to change anything, that is fantastic. However, it happens so rarely that the habit of editing and revision must be definitely incorporated into your writing routine. There is no limit to perfection, so revision, editing and proofreading (both grammar and meaning) is a must.

Bird By Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, Anne Lamott

Perfectionism is an evil in the writing field. It may kill any talent in any genius, which is, obviously, the shame. Therefore, Anne Lamott, like many other writers, reminds to be aware of such enemy of the creative person as perfectionism. Being scared to even start the first draft can have disastrous consequences. Imagine how many pieces of literature we would never see, if their authors succumbed to perfectionism and never wrote their works of art. Writing is a state of a flow. No need to be afraid not to do it right from the first time. You may delete 99 drafts, but the 100^th draft will be worth for humankind to see your work and appreciate its brilliance.

If you are reading this article, it is more than likely that you are struggling with your writer’s path. Hopefully, our list of thoughts from famous authors will inspire you and will make a writer in you awaken and flourish to the delight of the whole humankind.