Fun Rules For Writing Fiction

Get an accountant, abstain from sex and similes, cut, rewrite, then cut and rewrite again – if all else fails, pray. Inspired by Elmore Leonard’s 10 Rules of Writing, we asked authors for their personal do’s and don’ts

…..I came across this recently – Ten Rules For Writing Fiction –  it’s from The Guardian –   a two part article where prominent writers give their ten rules for writing fiction. There are  some great tips to be had, as well as much fun, and I always find that quotes like these, especially written on large sheets of paper in purple felt tip and stuck to my noticeboard, can help keep me inspired and working, or at least make me smile. Hope you enjoy them too.

For sheer simplicity, pragmatism and a certain brand of humility my vote goes to Ian Rankin’s 10 rules

1 Read lots.
2 Write lots.
3 Learn to be self-critical.
4 Learn what criticism to accept.
5 Be persistent.
6 Have a story worth telling.
7 Don’t give up.
8 Know the market.
9 Get lucky.
10 Stay lucky.

Others I really like – Esther Freud – Never forget, even your own rules are there to be broken. Possibly the best tip of all!!

David Hare – If nobody will put your play on, put it on yourself.

Rose Tremain – When an idea comes, spend silent time with it…allow yourself also to dream your idea into being.

Jeanette Winterson – Turn up for work… and also – Love what you do.

I think my top tip would be a version of Ian Rankin’s No. 3 – Never stop asking how your writing can be improved – until its finished that is-  and then wait for your agent or publisher to tell you how.

Let me know if any of the tips strike a chord with you or if you have any of your own to share