< expLog

On Writing

tl;drs

Composition

  • Each sentence should represent a single thought.
  • Structure sentences like trees: an independent clause for the central idea, with subordinate clauses attached for supporting thoughts.
  • Some ideas should be expressed in parallel: join them with conjunction clauses.

Process

  • Write every day.
  • Be honest about who you are: tell something true, even if it's through a lie (storytelling).
  • Maintain a journal to collect ideas.
  • Actively finish things to improve.
  • Everything is funny – in time. As a writer, you can write about it.
  • Pay attention to the world.

Sources

Masterclass

Neil Gaiman

David Sedaris

Writing and Thinking, Norman Foerster