Pages

▼

Friday, 29 November 2013

Writing Tips #1: Finding Your Story

People often ask me for writing advice. So I'm doing a series of posts here, where I'll be giving my own tips, and collecting some favourites that have inspired me.

I'm beginning with my all-time favourite piece of writing advice. I like it so much, I have it pinned up on the wall of my study.  It was written by JD Salinger, in his novella Seymour: an Introduction.
"If only you'd remember before ever you sit down to write that you've been a reader long before you were ever a writer. You simply fix that fact in your mind, then sit very still and ask yourself, as a reader, what piece of writing in all the world would you most want to read if you had your heart's choice? The next step is terrible, but so simple I can hardly believe it as I write it. You just sit down shamelessly and write the thing yourself."

at

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous29 December 2013 at 17:18

    Thank you very much for the advice. I think that this advice is very true and smart.

    Semir

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SF Said9 January 2014 at 14:57

      Thank you so much, Semir! That's very kind of you to say. I hope to do more writing tips soon, so please watch this space...

      Delete
    2. Unknown10 June 2014 at 17:51

      Hiya. I am Mehvish from Oakridge school. I met you and trust me your an inspiration !!! All of your books are AMAZING, Congrats on your book awar for Phonix. Thank you
      From Mehvish Oakridge school Miss Hawes yr6

      Delete
    3. SF Said11 June 2014 at 13:02

      Dear Mehvish,

      Thank YOU so much for your kind comment! I really appreciate it, and I'm glad you've enjoyed my books. Hopefully it won't be too long before the next one is ready...

      With best wishes,
      SF

      Delete

Type your comment in the box, then choose an option from the list (it's fine to choose 'anonymous'), then click 'Publish'.
Your comment will not appear automatically, but will go into a queue for moderation.

If you're getting in touch about author visits, please remember to include an email address!