Stephen King On Writing, Memoir of the Craft

BOOK REVIEW: Stephen Kings Memoir of the Craft, On Writing
Author: Stephen King
320 Pages
Copyright: 2000
Highly Recommended Read!

Published in 2000, I am writing this late review purely for myself. I am by no means a prolific writer. In fact, I am a Graphic Designer who loves to write. I have no aspirations of fame and glory. I write because I like to. It’s that simple.

In my quest for learning the craft of writing, I read many books. All seemed textbook and lacked the human emotion I felt about writing. None impacted me as much as On Writing.

Throughout On Writing, King’s love of writing is obvious through his joyful approach and insights. His trepedation to creating On Writing, was thankfully swayed by his friend, Amy Tan. He doesn’t promise epiphanies and magic wands. He sits down with you, one-on-one, and with heartfelt honesty, shares his love of the craft in no nonsense, “you can do it” style.

I read the first section of Stephen King On Writingin one sitting. As a slow reader, that is something. King begins On Writing as a memoir of his life, from childhood to adult, and how experiences shaped him as a writer. His matter-of-fact, down-to-earth style is what captivated me. I felt a part of his life, his struggle and related to him. I connected with the character.

The second part of the book is on writing. His use, of metaphors and similes made understanding simplistic. Yet it wasn’t the tools of writing that I found the most helpful. It was the encouragement I felt – “You can do this.”

I cannot say what others will think about On Writing. For me, it was the most honest, open heart, take-it-or-leave-it approach to writing I have ever read.