One of the three books I read over my vacation was “The Dog of Marriage” by Amy Hempel; she was so strongly praised by another of my favorite writers, Chuck Palahniuk, that I had to find out why he exulted her so.
I did.
Writing is art. In this respect, it is no different from painting, singing, or playing a musical instrument. If there is a difference, it is in that most other forms of art require at least some physical aptitude to be proficient at. Writing requires only basic communication skills. The rest is pure inspiration, imagination, and motivation.
Like all art, great writing takes many forms. Some master the rules of grammar and structure only to turn them on their heads. Some follow the rules concisely, crafting their stories with precision. Some draw together the threads of a story with a seemingly effortless force of will. Some are generous with their words, writing effusively and with granduer; some whittle away at their words until all that is left are the bare bones. Some rely on style, some on the story, some on character.
No one can tell you how to write. They can provide you with the tools of your trade (spelling, grammar, structure). They can provide guidance. They can offer support. But they can’t tell you how to write something. Doing this has a term already – its called collaboration. This is fine if that is your intent. But never let your voice be drowned out in the chorus of others.
[audio:WonderBoys_NobodyTeachesAWriterAnything.mp3]
Michael Douglas, Wonder Boys