Update 26 - On Writing

I finished the Dark Tower series for a second time this week. It took me a day to start my next read by the same author. On Writing by Stephen King has to be my second favorite book about the craft of writing, behind The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. & E.B. White. The hesitation I felt before starting the book was easy enough to narrow down- The book gets me excited about writing, and reminds me of how slack I’ve been in my own writing.

I’m not writing a review of the book, but I will recommend it. The concept of reviewing someone else’s work makes me uneasy. I’m about half-way through the book now- in the good part. The book has a lot of good tips, and speaks earnestly about writing as a whole. Not only has it helped my notes, but it’s got my thoughts straight. I’m working on my book every evening, and thinking less about the story and more about how I’m going to tell the story well. One has been receiving more attention than the other.

One piece of advice that stands out from On Writing is “Put your desk in the corner”.

I’ve been so consumed by my failings- and I do think of them as failings more than I should- as a writer. I can bitch, moan, and posture. I can edit and research until a coronary finally takes me out. But that is accomplishing nothing. I’m starting to write seriously, rather than in this kind of faux, spiritually-assuaging manner I’ve been at since about the age of 23. I’m really grateful for any book that can not only bring things harshly into focus, but encourage me to go on my way. I’m writing seriously- but I’m remembering the desk goes in the corner.

I’m living my life. I’m taking my health and responsibilities seriously and getting away from zombifying myself. I’m reading more, and God does that feel good. I’m living my life, but every night, I am returning to that desk in the corner. It’s my own space, my own escape, and I’m building something.

I don’t know what to do when it’s done, but the joy is in the creation, I suppose.

Have a good day, reader.