Great Writers on the Art of Fiction: From Mark Twain to Joyce Carol Oates

by James Daley

An indispensable source of advice and inspiration for aspiring writers, this anthology features observations on the craft of creating fiction, by classic and contemporary authors. A literary feast of artistic practices and philosophies, its absorbing essays offer a vast array of personal reflections, suggestions, and critiques.
Featured writers include Edgar Allan Poe, Henry James, Joseph Conrad, Kate Chopin, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Jack London presents "Advice for Aspiring Writers," Sinclair Lewis recounts "How I Wrote a Novel on the Train and Beside the Kitchen Sink," and Kurt Vonnegut offers tips on "How to Write with Style." Mark Twain provides a guided tour of "My Literary Shipyard," Eudora Welty discusses the shaping of "Words into Fiction," and John Irving addresses the difficulties of "Getting Started." Other contributors include Willa Cather, Raymond Chandler, Wallace Stegner, Raymond Carver, Joyce Carol Oates, and Margaret Atwood.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2007

Reviews

[Marian Bron · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Great Writers On The Art of Fiction", edited by James Daley is an interesting collection of essays and letters. The first couple are written in the 1800's and require a bit of a think to get through but all of the pieces are worth reading.
Some are studies of the craft such as Edgar Allan Poe's "The Philosopy of Composition", others such as Margaret Atwood's "Nobody to Nobody" discuss the reader, while Sinclair Lewis's witty "How I Wrote a Novel on the Train and Beside the Kitchen Sink" discusses getting down to business and writing that book.
An inspirational read!

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a small book that you can read in a weekend and study for the rest of your life. I especially like the organization, which is almost chronological from Edger Allan Poe (1809-49) to Margaret Atwood (b. 1939).

As you move through time with these great writers, you discover that style might change, but the fundamentals of good writing remain constant. This book is filled with great insights and if you love writing, writers, or reading, this is a great book.

[Dale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is another awesome book which should be a required text for writers. With great short essays on writing by some of the best writers, it has much valuable material in a small package. All so worthwhile, with practical advice and incredible insight on the art and world of writing. So many favorite pieces from some of the greats. Entertaining and instructive.

[alittlemonstrous · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute, entertaining, but not all that useful when it comes to practical writing advice. Not enough authors of color or female authors in this volume, either.