“A writer needs three things, experience, observation, and imagination — any two of which, at times any one of which — can supply the lack of the others.”
William Faulkner
When I think about writing, and my meagre attempts at it, I think that Faulkner's reflection on what is needed are pretty accurate.
Oftentimes we write from experience - to make sense of it; to share it or simply because it amused or entertained us. We need to observe - looking closely at things and considering them. Exploring connections; random moments; noises, smells and sensations. And then the imagination - the ability to extrapolate, expand, and move beyond the present or the known, to create people, ideas, places, experiences that simply don't exist in the realm of the real.
I also love his approach to getting by with two; and if push comes to shove one might do!
My sense is that if you read a really good book; or a beautiful passage, you can understand that the write was working with these notions.
Experience, observation, imagination...
PS - here's a link to a short video from our Celebration of Books - I get all enthusiastic!!!
William Faulkner
When I think about writing, and my meagre attempts at it, I think that Faulkner's reflection on what is needed are pretty accurate.
Oftentimes we write from experience - to make sense of it; to share it or simply because it amused or entertained us. We need to observe - looking closely at things and considering them. Exploring connections; random moments; noises, smells and sensations. And then the imagination - the ability to extrapolate, expand, and move beyond the present or the known, to create people, ideas, places, experiences that simply don't exist in the realm of the real.
I also love his approach to getting by with two; and if push comes to shove one might do!
My sense is that if you read a really good book; or a beautiful passage, you can understand that the write was working with these notions.
Experience, observation, imagination...
PS - here's a link to a short video from our Celebration of Books - I get all enthusiastic!!!
we all learn to write when we are young but not many can make it an art and you do!
ReplyDeleteThat is very kind Mo - but I know my limitations! Good writing is a joy to experience and I am so often in awe of folk who do it well. And I like knowing that people have been thoughtful as they write, and finessed it for us. Go well.
DeleteWhat a revealing quote ... finely wrought
ReplyDeleteSimple, but a truth, I think Liz!
Delete