On a writer’s website, I suppose, that makes sense. But, if you understand what I’m saying, no one offers all-beef hamburgers at a vegetarian convention.
The five issues that people frequently repeat outdated advice they acquired online without fully understanding it. The other half is simply mistaken.
1 Price asserts that there *is* an incorrect way to write.
You’ve probably heard the tired “show, don’t tell” advice that appears on every list of pointless writing advice. It is frequently used in conjunction with the Chekhov adage, “Don’t tell me the moon is bright; show me the gleam of light on shattered glass,” as if the everyday schmuck understands what it means.
2 Frequency of writing is irrelevant, says Tartt
Another idiotic thing people say is this. You must write each day. No, but that advice is wherever the sun won’t shine. Donna Tartt, who won a freaking Pulitzer, disagrees that you must write daily. Writing is something you do whenever you can and, more importantly, when you have to because it’s making your head hurt. The issue is not frequency. Simply said, authors create because they are compelled to. There isn’t a set frequency.
3 Vonnegut asserts that you are not writing for yourself.
Indeed, if you’re keeping a journal for yourself, write. However, what if you want others to read it? It’s no longer only for you. Yes, you are the source of the words, and they flow from you. The worst outcome is for a reader to conclude the book or reach the tale’s conclusion and exclaim, “Wow, what a freaking waste of time.”
4 Ignore suggestions for improving your writing
I’m going to scream if I hear anyone say this one more time: “We should take advice from everyone, even our detractors.” NO. Take no advice. Not even from your closest friends, much fewer detractors. Gaiman had this to say. If not, it’s a different voice. The best writing talent a person can develop is the ability to spot the glitches in their voice.
5 Develop your skills, advises Maya Angelou.
People appear to believe that writing is equivalent to typing. Thus, it makes sense why there is so much subpar writing. A skill is writing. There is no shame in not being a good writer, but there are techniques to pick up. A good piece of writing can vary. Bad writing is much simpler to spot. It is sluggish. Focuses less. Rambles. Excessive use of clichés or adjectives. Truthfully, learning how to write well is more about knowing how to avoid mistakes.
