Babbling about Books--Thursday

On Writing

By Stephen King

I just finished On Writing by Stephen King. Warning! If you decide to read this book, the language is atrocious. However, I found it an interesting read. Stephen King is a different type of guy. Years and years ago, I read a couple of his books. The Stand was one I definitely recall. I think I quit after I began Cujo and it scared me too much to continue.

Anyway, I digress. On Writing is somewhat of a memoir on Mr. King's life and an instructional book on the craft of writing. It has some interesting tidbits for writers, especially if you write fiction. Overall, the memoir chapters intrigued me the most. I always wonder what makes authors tick. I can't say for sure why Stephen King always writes suspense/horror books, but he did have somewhat of an unusual childhood.

Anyway, a year or so ago Jerry Jenkins and Stephen King were interviewed together in Writer's Digest. Honestly, you couldn't pick two writers who are more different in belief and writing style. But the interview made it clear that they respected each other. So reading On Writing enlarged my knowledge of who Stephen King is as a person and a wordsmith. He doesn't mince words when it comes to his opinions on writing and on life in general.

If you want to read this to learn more about the craft of writing, I would pass on it. If the inner sanctums of famous writers interest you (and you can ignore the profanity), then it's a book that will make you question why your write. Is it for fame, fortune or just the love of writing? Stephen King writes because he loves to write--although it's made him famous and filthy rich, too.