How to Write Like Stephen King
Stephen King is one of the most important authors of our time. This American author knows how to capture the public’s imagination. Many of his works have film and TV adaptations.
For these and other reasons, many people consider Stephen King’s writing advice amazing. The author has given several interviews where he advises aspiring writers on how to be successful. In this article, we’ll mention six of his best tips.
“If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.”
-Stephen King-
Stephen King’s Best Writing Advice
1. Write for Yourself
This tip can seem counterintuitive. According to King, a n artist must write even if the public doesn’t like their work. At first, this might not seem like the path to fame. However, if you think it through, it makes sense.
Literature is so varied. There are dozens of genres and styles and many different stories to tell. Completely opposite books can reach similar levels of fame. For example, what do Don Quixote and Harry Potter have in common? Nothing! However, they’re some of the most popular books worldwide.
That’s why it’s important to like what you’re writing. If your work looks good to you and you persevere, sooner or later you’ll find your target audience.
2. A Novel is Written One Word at a Time
If you’ve ever tried to write your own book, you’ll know that facing that empty, white sheet can be terrifying. When you try to do a task that’s too big, you can feel intimidated by the number of things you have to do. Mr. King’s second tips gives you a clue to overcoming this.
The author thinks that the best way to avoid this fear is to just face the next task. Don’t think that you must finish the 600-page book. Focus on writing a few words a day. Little by little, you’ll finish your novel without stressing yourself out too much.
3. Read a Lot
To King, the best way to find your own style is to read many types of literature. He believes that one of the keys to becoming a good writer is to be a good reader. If you haven’t yet learned to appreciate a good book, King’s advice is to start now.
4. Avoid Distractions
As you know, distractions can keep you from finding creativity. That’s why, when faced with a task, get rid of anything that might distract you.
While you’re writing, don’t use any electronic devices. Let your family and friends know that you’ll be disconnected for a few hours. Avoid social media and any kind of temptation. Once you start writing, your goal should be doing it for as long as you possibly can, without unnecessary interruptions.
5. Find Your Own Style
One of the most common mistakes amateur writers make is trying to imitate their heroes. When you start doing something, it’s normal to not feel comfortable with what you’re doing. That’s why you might try to emulate the people you look up to.
Although this is perfectly normal, you need to find your own way. Stephen King says this is one of the most important things to becoming a successful writer.
6. Set a Deadline
Last but not least, you need to set a goal and start working towards it. For example, writing your first book under three months.
Challenging but achievable goals can motivate you enough to start writing for real. According to Stephen King, you’ll be capable of solving any issues that might come your way.
Have you discovered something that helps you write better?