Morrell's Advice

Recently I had an opportunity to hear author David Morrell speak. He summarized many points contained in his writing craft book Lessons From a Lifetime of Writing: a novelist looks at his craft. I strongly agreed with much of his advice. In no particular order, here are some highlights:

• Writing is a kind of self psychoanalysis. Use your one-of-a-kind psyche to guide you to original unique stories, subjects, themes and approaches. Don't try to imitate other authors. Don't chase the market.
• Don't be ignorant about other authors. Read!
• When you get stuck in your writing, consider having a conversation with yourself. What happens next? Why? So what? and the like.
• Plot should equal conflict plus motivation.
• Plot and character should be intimately related.
• Write what you're passionate about! If you don't know about something, research it. Have adventures; live your life. A well-lived life has a lot material for fiction.
• A writing career will have many peaks and valleys; keep your perspective.

How about you? What good writing advice have you gotten?

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