Read to Write

Reading is just as important to writing as writing itself. In fact, we learn more about writing when we read than we do when we write. This is because it's easier to see what works well and what doesn't work well in someone else's writing. We are often blind to these things in our own writing because we're too close to it. When reading, we have cognitive distance that allows us to scrutinize with an objective mind. We know what resonates with us when we read and what leaves us feeling flat. But trying to get a sense of that in our own writing is much harder. It's absolutely critical that writers be prolific readers. By being exposed to a vast variety of styles, voices and genres, we are able to find where we belong in the literary world. We can see what motivates us to write and what doesn't. We come to understand what we can add to the body of existing literature and how we can contribute uniquely to it. A poor reader cannot become a good writer. The two are inextricably intertwined and the best training ground for writing is prolific reading. If you are stuck in a writing project and can't seem to move forward, put it down and pick up something to read. The reading, in time, will inspire you, will open you up, and you will be back into your writing with renewed vigor. Reading gives us the juice to write. Make sure you read as much as you write and the two will blend into a profitable writing life.