Great insights regarding my question! I agree about both gift and skill being necessary in writing and many other disciplines. Both creativity and cadence are important, but I think certain writing styles just appeal to some and not others. I can’t imagine ever being able to write a whole book, so I’m in awe of you and others who have succeeded in that realm. I have an old copy of that Strunk & White book, but that cover is a clear winner!
I just finished listening to “Blood” on Audible and I loved hearing it in your voice in all your pain and anger and joy. But I think now I’m going to buy a paper copy so I can savor the language slowly. It is beautifully written—such resonant details, and I love the way you weave together narrative and associative structures to form a new thing. I taught creative writing for 30 years and I think that you’re right that one needs both a gift and hard work to be the kind of writer you are. To my students, though, I emphasized the hard work part and reading, reading, reading! Only a few had an innate gift, but even parts of that element can be cultivated. You are blessed to be talented in so many areas, but I know you’ve worked hard to use your gifts well. And this fan is grateful for that.
I agree. Always read what you wrote backwards. A lesson learned in my highscool English Romantics class. I've utilized that all my life. All your typos and grammatical errors cannot hide themselves in the flow of your thoughts. JB
“I tried.” Love that! 😄
Great insights regarding my question! I agree about both gift and skill being necessary in writing and many other disciplines. Both creativity and cadence are important, but I think certain writing styles just appeal to some and not others. I can’t imagine ever being able to write a whole book, so I’m in awe of you and others who have succeeded in that realm. I have an old copy of that Strunk & White book, but that cover is a clear winner!
I just finished listening to “Blood” on Audible and I loved hearing it in your voice in all your pain and anger and joy. But I think now I’m going to buy a paper copy so I can savor the language slowly. It is beautifully written—such resonant details, and I love the way you weave together narrative and associative structures to form a new thing. I taught creative writing for 30 years and I think that you’re right that one needs both a gift and hard work to be the kind of writer you are. To my students, though, I emphasized the hard work part and reading, reading, reading! Only a few had an innate gift, but even parts of that element can be cultivated. You are blessed to be talented in so many areas, but I know you’ve worked hard to use your gifts well. And this fan is grateful for that.
Good morning. Do you still have an Alabama accent? Southern accents are the best!
I agree. Always read what you wrote backwards. A lesson learned in my highscool English Romantics class. I've utilized that all my life. All your typos and grammatical errors cannot hide themselves in the flow of your thoughts. JB
Great advice for any creative endeavor.
R-