Writing is a challenging journey, much like navigating the vast and unpredictable seas of creativity. In the midst of inspiration and doubt, the advice of those who have traversed these waters before can serve as a guiding light.

Famous writers, with their wealth of experience, have left behind a treasure trove of wisdom — practical tips, philosophical insights, and hard-earned lessons. Their do’s and don’ts offer aspiring writers a compass to navigate their own creative endeavors. From the importance of reading widely and writing consistently, to avoiding imitation and developing resilience in the face of rejection, these guidelines capture the essence of what it means to be a writer.

Whether you’re working on your first short story or putting the finishing touches on your latest novel, the sage advice from celebrated authors can clear up your path and help you avoid common obstacles while embracing practices that lead to success in the literary world.

Do’s

Here are some tips that will encourage writers at any stage to confidently and creatively carve out their own paths in writing.

Read Widely

“Read, read, read. Read everything — trash, classics, good and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You’ll absorb it. Then write.” — William Faulkner

William Faulkner’s advice to read widely is similar to a carpenter studying the work of a master craftsman. By immersing yourself in various genres and styles, you not only expand your understanding but also become a part of an ongoing literary conversation. It’s through this voracious reading that you discover not only what you love but also what you can contribute to the literary world.

Write Regularly

“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work.” — Stephen King

Stephen King’s perspective on writing regularly underscores the importance of discipline over waiting for the muse to strike: it’s not enough to just read; we must also write consistently. Waiting for inspiration is a luxury that amateurs cannot afford — writing must be treated as a craft that requires daily practice and refinement. It’s through this dedication that the chaff is separated from the wheat, and true writers emerge from the shadows of intention.

Edit Ruthlessly

“If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.” — Elmore Leonard

Elmore Leonard reminds us that simplicity and clarity should always take precedence over flowery language or unnecessary details. The process of editing should be as much about finding the essence of your story as it is about removing what’s unnecessary. This ruthless editing ensures that what remains on the page holds power, purpose, and precision.

Find Your Voice

“To gain your own voice, you have to forget about having it heard.” — Allen Ginsberg

Finding your voice is about authenticity, not about the accolades or recognition it might bring. It’s a process of self-exploration, of peeling back the layers to reveal the core of your unique perspective and style. Your voice should echo the truths you’ve discovered and the ones you’re seeking, creating a resonance that attracts readers to your work.

Seek Feedback

“Write to please just one person. If you open a window and make love to the world, so to speak, your story will get pneumonia.” — Kurt Vonnegut

The wisdom in Kurt Vonnegut’s advice lies in the importance of selective feedback. He cautions against trying to please everyone. Instead, choose trusted individuals whose opinions you respect to help you grow without losing the essence of your story to outside influences. This targeted approach helps you grow without losing your story to the whims of the crowd.

Don’ts

Knowing what to avoid is just as important for writers as knowing what to do. Tips from renowned authors not only shed light on the best practices, but also serve as cautionary tales against common pitfalls. Whether it’s avoiding procrastination, resisting the temptation to mimic others, overcoming fear of failure, focusing on the fundamentals of writing, or remembering to never give up, these “don’ts” from literary icons can help writers navigate the obstacles and stay motivated. By taking heed of these warnings, writers of all levels can navigate their way through the challenges of writing with greater ease, keeping their creativity flowing and their spirits high.

Don’t Procrastinate

“Don’t wait until tomorrow to do what you could have done today.” Procrastination can sabotage your dreams if you let it. It’s tempting to hold off on writing or working on a project until the “perfect” moment arrives, but that moment may never come. In reality, taking action is what leads to progress. Begin with what you have and where you are now, and momentum will build from there.

Don’t Imitate Others

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde.

This quote highlights the mistake of trying to copy others. While we may be inspired by our favorite writers, it is important to forge our own unique paths. Our stories should be a mirror of our inner selves, shaped by our personal journeys, hopes, and anxieties. Genuine writing connects with readers on a deeper level than simply constructing an impressive facade.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

“I love my rejection slips. They show me I try.”

— Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath’s attitude towards rejection and failure offers a healthy perspective. It means you are taking risks, venturing into uncharted territory, and most importantly, creating something new. Instead of fearing failure, see it as a natural part of the process, not the ultimate defeat.

Don’t Ignore the Basics

“Grammar is a piano I play by ear. All I know about grammar is its power.”

— Joan Didion

The ability to master language is a writer’s greatest asset. Disregarding the foundations of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure is equivalent to a carpenter neglecting their tools. Mastery of the basics allows you to bend the rules with purpose, creating effects that enhance rather than detract from your writing.

Don’t Give Up

“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” — Confucius

As a writer, you will face countless challenges and setbacks along the way. However, it is these obstacles that provide valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. The key difference between successful writers and unsuccessful ones is often their ability to persevere through the toughest of times. Remember, your unwavering dedication to your craft will define your journey as a writer. So keep moving forward; your next draft could be the turning point in your career.

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These do’s and don’ts of famous writers serve as a powerful reminder that writing is not just about creating, but also a journey of constant learning, discipline, and self-discovery. From the importance of maintaining a regular writing practice to the courage to ruthlessly edit one’s work, from persevering through rejection to finding one’s unique voice amidst the noise of others, these lessons act as a compass for aspiring writers on their own literary path. By embracing these teachings, we not only honor the literary greats who have shaped our world, but also pave the way for our own stories to be told, remembered, and treasured.

First published on Medium