Writing Resources: Stephen King On Writing
And I hate saying it because I want to like every genre in the world of reading and writing. I can’t think of a musical genre that I don’t like, so why does there have to be a genre in literature that just turns me off?
It’s not like I hate horror. I just don’t like it. At all. I can appreciate it for its creativity and artistic merit (yes, I do think horror has artistic merit), but I can’t get into it. Sorry. Maybe the fact that I’m bonkers over sci-fi and fantasy will redeem me. Maybe Stephen King will forgive me.
I have great respect for Stephen King. I may not like horror, but I do like good writing and clever storytelling. I have read a couple of his books and while his works of horror were not to my taste, I certainly can appreciate excellent craftsmanship. Sure, he writes other stuff (I loved the movie Stand by Me), but let’s face it, he’s the king of horror. Elvis is the king of rock and roll. Michael Jackson is the king of pop. And Stephen King is the king of horror.
The Buzz On Writing
So, why would I read a writing book by a horror author? The answer is that I wouldn’t. I can’t read the stuff and I’m never going to write it. I saw Mr. King’s book on the shelf, thought it was good that horror writers now had their own bible, and moseyed downstairs to the used-books basement, where I like to hunt for old MacCafferey and Bradley books.
The buzz about King’s book wasn’t immediate, but it was persistent. First one writer, then another would throw out “Stephen King’s book on writing.” This is a convenient sentence because the book has a convenient (and brilliant) title; It’s called On Writing
Eventually the buzz became a persistent hum, almost a chant: “You haven’t read it yet?” “Oh, you’ll LOVE it.” “It’s the BEST writing book EVER.”
Here’s the thing about writers: They don’t throw around book recommendations haphazardly, especially books about writing. So, when every writer you know is telling you that this is a wonderful, staple book that you simply must experience, you really ought to read it.
So I did.
A King’s Life
On Writing
The first half of the book takes the reader through Mr. King’s life, from childhood, through young adulthood, and to his ultimate success as an author. Ever wonder what a wildly successful author read as a kid? Which movies he watched? When he started writing? What challenges he faced in getting his work published?
It’s all there, including the nail on little Stevie King’s bedroom wall upon which he impaled his rejection slips — a long nail, which eventually filled up and then led to a second nail. But little Stevie King did something most young writers fail to do; he refused to give up. So the rejections piled up, but do did his writing and his skill set. And then one day, his work was published. And then another day, he got a movie deal (Carrie). Book deals, awards, and legions of fans followed. But buried in all the acclaim and attention is a man who simply loves to write, a man who lives to write.
And Stephen King is a man who has mastered writing.
On Writing
In the second half of On Writing
It all starts with the one thing every writer must have: a toolbox. In your toolbox, you’ll put your vocabulary, grammar, and a host of other tools that you can use to build effective writing that resonates and compels. Mr. King talks about plot, characters, where to get ideas, and why The Elements of Style
When I opened this book and started reading, I didn’t know what to expect. I was in the middle of at least four other books (a poetry collection, two novels, and another writing book). I quickly forgot about the others. I could not put this book down, so I devoured it in less than two days. That’s a testament to Stephen King’s writing, because I’m not easily impressed and it takes damn good writing to get me singing praises.
The value of On Writing is immeasurable. I find that writing advice is valuable, but when you add personal story and experience to the advice, it becomes priceless. Every year, I buy and read books that promise to help writers. Most of them end up in the discard pile and get hauled off to the library or used bookstore. Very few make it to my bookshelf — The Chicago Manual of Style, Writing Down the Bones, The Elements of Style, and now, On Writing.
Do yourself a favor and get a copy, then read it right away. You won’t regret it.
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I agree with just about every thing you said, here. I don’t like horror, either. Not even a little, so that this book on writing is the only Stephen King I’ve ever read … and that it was entirely worth it.
It’s a gem! I feel like it filled in a gap in my writing resources collection, mostly because of the memoir that is included. I love reading, watching, and listening to biographies!
The book is an essential part of my writing library. Whenever rejection gets me down or motivation is lacking I immediately read the key parts.
I especially like his reference as to why one should write – “not to get paid or laid”, but for the joy of it.
By the way his first name is spelled “Stephen”.
If you are serious or want to be buy the book.
It has become an essential book in my library as well. I was especially fascinated with the part describing the nail in the wall upon which he put all the rejection slips. Another part that stood out was when he revised a story and sent it to a publication that had previously rejected the very same story, but this time they accepted it (presumably because he had established a name for himself). There’s a treat on every page!
I realize there was a typo in the post, which I’ve since corrected. Thank you for catching that.
I am serious, and I’ve already bought the book (and read it, obviously). Are you suggesting that I didn’t actually read it?
You spelled his name incorrectly when it’s right there on the book in your picture. No wonder “Steven” is so mad at you!
Apparently he’s not the only one.
Yes, I accidentally misspelled “Stephen” as “Steven” in the post, and I’ve since corrected this grave error. And yes, I am embarrassed (you might even say I’m mortified). Oh and yes, I’m also human. Please forgive me.
Not a fan of horror. Isn’t everyday life harsh enough? But I like mysteries and I suppose without all the horror elements King could be considered a kind of mystery writer. I’ll have to think about this book, but at the moment my plate is full.
This book was on my wish list for well over a year before I finally bought it. I feel like I read it when the time was right for me to read it, so if you’re meant to read it, then you will (when the time is right). This book has nothing to do with horror; it’s just about writing and being a writer. Also, Mr. King has written novels and short stories that aren’t in the horror genre at all, such as Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption (adapted into the film The Shawshank Redemption) and The Green Mile.
Melissa, I am SO glad you shared this review. I can relate to every word! I am not a big horror fan at all. And although I have watched a couple of his movies (out of curiosity), I have also walked past his book many times. I even saw it the other day sitting on a shelf–used. It was around $1 or $2. I’m SO kicking myself right now because I almost bought it. *sigh*
I think I will treat myself to a copy sometime soon. And I’ll definitely read it quickly. I’ll let you know my thoughts.
Thanks, Melissa! I value your opinion, so I know I want this book!
After reading this book, I have already decided to read more of Stephen King’s work, though I will probably stay away from the hardcore horror. However, first I have a big pile of books to get through, so maybe in a year or two… heheee. By the way, I received my copy of Grammar Girl’s book last week (on your recommendation) and I’m greatly looking forward to reading it and then reviewing it here. Also, I’m loving the Larabars
If you’re not a horror fan, but want to read more of King’s work, you might try Bag of Bones. He describes it as “a haunted love story.” I liked it, and while it has a little gruesomeness in a couple of places, it has some sweet parts and is much less icky/traumatizing than some of his work.
I’d like to read Bag of Bones as well as The Stand and The Dark Tower series. I’ll be busy for awhile…
Hi Melissa – It’s a few years since I read this book and I loved it too. I’m going to have to get myself another copy and re-read.
When you mentioned the nail in the wall, you reminded me of how persistent a writer has to be and I definitely needed reminding again.
The older I get, the more I believe that persistence is the true key to success, and that’s probably why the nail in the wall struck me so much.
I love horror and even if there’s a genre I don’t like, I don’t turn the book away because it’s in that genre. Every book is different and unique no matter what the “genre” is. And if the story is written well enough it doesn’t matter where it’s shelved.
I have not yet read “On Writing” but look forward to it.
I’m the same way Hannah. I have read some horror novels, and I’m definitely open to reading more in the future. My main problem with horror is that I have a difficult time suspending my disbelief. I don’t know why, because suspending my disbelief is not a problem at all with fantasy and science fiction. It’s strange. In any case, “On Writing” is excellent, and I do hope you’ll read and enjoy it.
Thank you for this review. My daughter loves Stephen King and has a lot of his books. I do not like horror either, but have heard of this book. I have it but have not read it yet. But I definitely will now.
It’s definitely a great read whether you are a fan of horror or not. Come back and share your thoughts after you’ve read it!
I used to love King’s books, but never thought of myself as a horror reader. Now I don’t really read any horror at all, but am still a big fan of On Writing. The man has a gift.
Yes, although I’ve read just a little bit of his work, it’s clear that he has mastered many angles: story, plot, characters, craft, mechanics, and more.
Beautiful write up. I know someday I will read it. It sounds too compelling.
Have you tried the Talisman? It’s less horror. I remember reading it one Summer and it was a crazy adventure. Actually, it was more like an experience.
I haven’t tried The Talisman; in fact, I don’t think I’ve heard of that one. My Stephen King reading list sure is growing! Thanks for your kind words, J.D.