Archive for May 3rd, 2008

If You Want To Write. A book about art, independence and spirit. Brenda Ueland.

If You Want To Write. A book about art, independence and spirit. Brenda Ueland. 1937,1987. ISBN 9781555974718. Carl Sandburg called this ,”the best book ever written about how to write.” I have eleven other “good” books on my shelf on writing, I monitor six blogs on writing yet, this is the first author who has really spoken to me on writing. If you strive for reality, truth and want to really communicate, this short and well written book is a must read for you. An example …”everybody in the world has the same conviction of inner importance… Therefore all should work. First because it is impossible that you have no creative gift. Second: the only way to make it live and increase is to use it. Third: you cannot be sure that it is not a great gift.” Her advice runs counter to all the “technical” improvements put forward and addresses our individual ability to tap into an “inner” voice, without guilt, timetables, or “the right way”. She is able to give you examples of incredible writing from very ordinary people. I loved her metaphor that great communication “infects” the reader with what you are talking about. Something like spinning a tale to a child and watching their eyes light up driven by all their senses and imaginations.

Category: Writing

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