5 Lessons on Writing by Ayn Rand
Ayn Rand’s writing tips on theme, plot, characterization and style.
“To be the kind of writer you want to be, you must first be the kind of thinker you want to be.” — Ayn Rand
Recently, I came across the book ‘The Art of Fiction’ by Ayn Rand. An incredible account of Ayn Rand’s lectures on writing. And when Ayn Rand is handing out advice, you listen.
I count The Fountainhead among my favorite books. I loved Atlas Shrugged as well. Rand is a love or hate kind of writer. The ideas and themes she presents are provocative and serve as a philosophy itself.
Rand held that fiction has four essential elements: theme, plot, characterization, and style. In the book, the greatest emphasis is put on plot and style.
Her thoughts on writing are profound and eye-opening. Her advice invites me to work harder on my writing and improve my work on many levels. I even had another good look at the outline of my book and restructured my plot and theme. Plus, I thought even more deeply about my characters.
In this article, I will share with you the lessons I learned from the book.
