Joan Didion understands the role of curiosity and inquiry in the life of a writer and how it leads to understanding and discovery—even discovering oneself. "I write entirely to find out what is on my mind, what I’m thinking, what I’m looking at, what I’m seeing, and what it means." — Joan Didion Source: Trimble, John R. Writing with Style: Conversations on the … [Read more...]
Writing Quotes: Mary Karr on wading into memory’s waters
You might think twice about writing memoir after reading this sobering line from Mary Karr's book The Art of Memoir, but don't let it stop you. Even though she issues this warning, she also assures the reader that "all the scrupulous self-examinations" she's been privy to, on page or off, "always ended with acceptance and relief" (12). You'll survive wading into … [Read more...]
Writing Quotes: Begin, for half the deed is in beginning
Once a week I'll supply you with a quote to encourage you in your writing life. They come from a variety of sources; I consider them all quotes for writers, even when they aren't obviously about writing. For example, today's from Roman poet Decimius Magnus Ausonius (frequently referred to simply as Ausonius), is meant as a gentle nudge to just get started on your … [Read more...]
Writing Quotes: Three Things You Need to Succeed as a Writer
Once a week I'll supply you with a quote to encourage you in your writing efforts. The quotes will come from a variety of sources; I consider them all quotes for writers, even when they aren't obviously about writing. No doubt a modern writer can relate to this one, as this powerful trio will help you succeed as a writer. Curiosity, coffee, and chocolate: three … [Read more...]
Writing Quotes: Ursula Le Guin on Semicolons
From p. 34 of Steering the Craft: Exercises and Discussions on Story Writing for the Lone Navigator or the Mutinous Crew, by Ursula K. Le Guin (updated and available in a new edition: Steering the Craft: A Twenty-First-Century Guide to Sailing the Sea of Story). … [Read more...]