“Doing” writing - Reading and writing - You, the writer

Creative writing - Mike Sanders 2014

“Doing” writing
Reading and writing
You, the writer

Having established that creative writing is autobiographical, it’s invented, and that you benefit from reading it, the most fundamental issue—and the primary purpose of this book—comes to the fore: how do you actually do it? Following are some proven fundamental approaches for producing creative writing, regardless of genre.

Perform short writing exercises. If you have trouble generating ideas or getting started, the trick is to write anyway. You’ll find many writing prompts in this book, and many more are available in books and on the web. As you perform exercises prescribed by other writers, you’ll find that your own ability for written expression will grow and develop. If possible, try to write every day, even if it’s just for 5 minutes, and even if it’s free writing.

DEFINITION

Free writing is the practice of writing nonstop about whatever enters your mind for a set period of time without making corrections or censoring anything. Free writing helps you become more comfortable with the act of writing, makes you aware of unconscious writing ideas and potential self-censorship, and improves your formal writing.

Don’t worry about lack of clarity, grammar, and general sloppiness. Even the very best writers have to revise and edit their work. After you’ve completed a free writing piece, leave it alone for several days. Then pick it up again, read over what you wrote, and pluck out the ideas and phrases you believe may be potentially useful in the future.

Also determine the time of day or night when you’re at your most creative. For many writers, this is first thing in the morning, before all the other demands of life set in. Others write well late at night, when the rest of the day’s business has been put to rest. Pay attention to when you feel most creative and alert while writing and are producing the best—not necessarily the most—work.

Finally, don’t forget to have fun. Remember that creative writing is a limitless art form rather than a conventional rule-laden job or chore. You have the freedom to write whatever you want. The only boundaries are those of your own imagination.