Gene Fowler was a journalist who later became one of the highest-paid screenwriters in Hollywood. He knew a thing or two about writing, and when I came across this quote
Writing is easy. All you do is stare at a blank sheet of paper until drops of blood form on your forehead.
— Gene Fowler
Most writers can relate to the sentiment expressed. I definitely can. On the one hand, writing really is easy. It’s not like we’re carrying bags of cement or performing brain surgery.
On the other hand, it’s extremely hard. It’s hard because we want to do good work. It’s hard because for the most part, nobody gives a fuck about what we do. It’s hard because we take a piece of ourselves and put it out there for anyone to see and judge. And finally, it’s hard because writing well really is damn hard.
Which made me think of the advice Gene had on becoming a great writer:
The best way to become a successful writer is to read good writing, remember it, and then forget where you remember it from.
— Gene Fowler
I can’t help but think he must have been quite a colorful character. While the “forget where you remember it from” part might have been tongue-in-cheek, it also expresses something I’ve heard from many writers: If you want to become a good writer, read great writing.
What’s are some books that exemplify great writing for you? Let me know in the comments.
