Read to Write

A writer's most valuable resource for learning how to write is reading. If you want to write mystery novels, read mystery novels. If you want to write poetry, read volumes of poetry. But read with two eyes - one for enjoyment, one for technique. Pay attention to the little details the writer employs that make that novel or poem resonate. You can learn what you like and don't like, what works well and what doesn't. There is no better teacher for how to write a novel than a well-written novel, no better teacher for how to write poetry than a well-crafted poem. Reading, for writers, is learning. Make an apprenticeship of reading. List the authors who write the types of works - fiction, nonfiction or poetry - that you would like to write. Then study them. Read with a pen and highlighter in hand. When a word or phrase or sentence or passage speaks strongly to you, mark it for future reference. Make note of how the author accomplished the impression and why it is so effective. Read widely. By experiencing a wide variety of authors, you will be exposed to a multitude of writing styles. From those, you can pick and choose what best suits your style and incorporate the techniques that fit you. Reading widely and well with a critical eye and a love for language is the best thing you can do to become an effective writer. Read yourself into your writing life and it will be rich with promise.