Reading King's memoir was completely different than what I expected. I've never read any of his novels and don't really like what his books are about either. I do however know he's a house hod name.
From someone who has so much experience in writing, and an interesting life of his own, I would expect to have learned something of value from King. One thing that really struck my interest was his idea of finding what you're good at and embracing it.
So many people do this in daily life, most seeking a career after something they're good at. If you excel in high school in a particular subject, you view that as your strong point. So if you get straight A's in math or science through school, when it times to go to college you're more likely to pick a career that's heavy in those subjects, especially because it's something you probably enjoy doing. Sometimes you're good at them and don't want to do that. Which is okay, is just means you look for something that comes naturally that you do enjoy doing. This choice in life is one that King uses as a writing strategy, I learned from him that this can become a technique in your writing.
I love the idea that says find what you're good at and use that in your writing. Not doing an entire mix of writing techniques, some of which you could entirely fail at. If you don't understand how to personify something, don't do it. King has a lot of genius writing ideas, but this was one that I really connected with. I tend to get into phases where I write a particular way and keep doing it over and over again because I'm good at it, or feel I'm getting continually better at it. King's telling me that it's okay for me to stick with what I'm good at, and understand. Rather than being all over the place and making myself a bad writer.
Thanks King!
Friday, February 12, 2010
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Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI think you're right... it is important to look at life and find things that we're good at so that we can focus on that. While at times it's not the best thing to just zero in on that, I think you're right; it is okay to stick with something you're good at....
I feel that I don't like to get disappointed so if I know I'm not good at something I try not to focus on it as much, instead I like to make myself happy and strengthen what I'm good at. I'm glad you pointed this out, Kings right! Besides, we're never going to be good at EVERYTHING!! :)
Good post!!
I agree! When you're stuck on one mode or routine we often think we need to change it up, especially when it comes to a writing style. But why shouldn't you be able to stick with a style you love and something you're good at? I love how you made this idea more general to fit college majors and life choices, because that is absolutely true. Good post! :)
ReplyDeleteIts funny.. I thought I was the only one that doesn't really read King or know much about him. I totally agree, I think that this memoir in very insightful and helpful. It also makes you feel comfortable to be "stuck in your own ways". In this memoir King isn't this awesome rich writer, in this memoir King comes down to our level and gives great advice.
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