Drawing on years of experience of writing, teaching and publishing, this book offers essential tools for writers interested in honing their craft. Whether you're a poet, non-fiction writer, novelist, journalist, student or simply a lover of words, it will take you on an exciting and challenging journey to becoming a sophisticated writer.
As in the learning of any true craft or art, first the focus is on specific skills, then on consolidating those skills, which by the end will be innate. Through a variety of exercises and freewriting prompts, Playing with Words will help you develop your writing, trying out new styles and approaches along the way. Use this book in a class, in a group, or alone in a writer's attic.
Books can be attributed to "Unknown" when the author or editor (as applicable) is not known and cannot be discovered. If at all possible, list at least one actual author or editor for a book instead of using "Unknown".
Books whose authorship is purposefully withheld should be attributed instead to Anonymous.
At times, doing all the exercises in this book might seem painful. However, I am happy that I did attempt the majority of them. I learned so much about writing. In fact, once I started an exercise, it turned out to be much easier than I had anticipated. The authors approach creative writing from many angles and after you have finished this book, you sure know a lot about writing. The theoretical parts are insightful, yet entertaining. The examples from their own work are enjoyable.
This was my study book for my semester at USC and I loved it. It was packed with interesting exercises and I learned a lot. It was also nicely paced which made the reading and practice more enjoyable. I hope all my study books will/would be that interesting... 😉😏