Why All Writers Need To Read

I was recently gifted a Stephen King book, but not one written within his typical genre. This one is a nonfiction memoir on the craft of writing, and although I have only just started it, I am already feeling its impact. And of course it has got me thinking, a dangerous concept I know.

My question of the day is, just how important is it that writers read?

According to his awesomeness, Mr. King himself: “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write.”

There are of course obvious advantages to being a consistent reader. Reading helps writers understand the reader's experience, develop their own unique voice, and become more knowledgeable about their subject matter.

Complete immersion within any craft certainly paves the way to mastery. Reading offers direct exposure to a variety of nuances. Although many writers may have a shared methodology, rarely are two exactly alike. Examining the work of others provides insights into different approaches and techniques that can be utilized. It cultivates an understanding of diverse tactics and their effects on the reader’s experience. This process sharpens editorial and creative discernment, offering essential tools for authors to improve their own work.

Writing is a craft that requires an open-ended approach to learning. I mean, arguably most jobs do. I firmly believe that the process of learning is never truly complete. There is always something new to discover or an area to advance upon. I’ll admit, this may be my inner teacher surfacing but honestly, I struggle to see the negatives in continual learning.

Regular reading can help writers to naturally grasp key elements of fiction, like the flow of a compelling story arc or knowing when a character is fully developed. It helps to expand vocabulary and offers opportunities to understand different writing styles and sentence structures.

Another positive aspect for writers is that reading within their chosen genre often enhances creativity, extending new ideas for stories, characters, or specific scenes. Even the books you may find less enjoyable can provide a valuable learning opportunity by illustrating what does or does not work from a reader’s perspective. By seating you in the audience it allows you to develop an understanding of what the reader really wants.

Therefore, one of the best ways to sharpen and refine your writing skills as a writer is by reading.

Interestingly not all of this learning is conscious. Often knowledge is internalized, meaning information is moved beyond being just facts and is integrated into an individual's understanding and actions, becoming part of their own mental models and habits.

The mode of reading matters too. Every now and again instead of reading as a reader, writers should read as an author. What I mean is that they should analyze and dissect the material. When encountering a particularly compelling text, writers should consider asking: What makes it so effective? How does the author skillfully employ devices such as conflict, point of view, and characterization to enhance the narrative? What elements stand out as innovative, unique, or powerful in their execution? How can I experiment with integrating these techniques into my own writing while maintaining my distinct style?

Writers should take the time to identify everything from the protagonist and antagonist to their narrative objectives, relationship dynamics, and major structural elements. It’s easy to admire the magic of a novel, but it is impossible to fully grasp how the author created that magic unless one takes the time to deconstruct it for oneself (that may be the most British sentence I have ever written!). In fact, breaking down a novel to analyze its components and how they work together can be just as valuable as a masterclass.

In conclusion, while setting aside time for writing is crucial, it's equally important not to overlook the value of reading. Prioritizing both, and striking a balance between them, can significantly improve an individual’s writing skills, expanding their perspective and helping them to grow into a more skilled and versatile writer. So, kick off that Goodreads challenge not just for your personal enjoyment but for the sake of your artistry and consider it a fundamental element of your lifelong learning journey.