k
n
i
h
T
u
o
SoY
Y o u C a n W r i t e
by Steve Bradshaw
L
ike most creative ventures, writing is a lonely
sport. Although there is a team effort to get a book
published, it is the author who creates a world from
thin air. With fingers on a keyboard and head a million miles
away, the writer captures the fleeting thoughts most of us
experience and let get away. The writer dives deep into the
morass of life. They resurface with the pearls and compose a
string of meaningful memories that capture our hearts and
minds. As my sixth novel is ready for release this summer,
I have discovered a few things along the way I wanted to
share with you. After a million published words, maybe some
of my perceptions can help a few writers on the same perilous
journey.
Learning how to write is a continual growth process.
What I know after typing the last word of my sixth novel
is far more than when I typed the first word of my first
unpublished novel. For me, in the simplest of terms,
it is all about getting what is in my head onto paper in
an alluring and worthwhile way for the reader. I do not
struggle with creation or story arc. I struggle with finding
the words and structures to best capture my thoughts so
the reader has unfettered access. Therefore, where do I go
to build these writing skills? I read books between writing
my books. I see how other authors do it. I listen when
leading authors give advice because they often cut to the
chase. I read books on writing, composition, story arc,
character development, and more. I research questions I
have during my writing—Google and Bing. I take writing
courses, attend writing conferences, and join local writing
groups. I learn something new whenever I spend time with
writers. I listen to my editors. I listen to friends and family.
New writers live the closest to the learning curve. As I gain
experience, I find the writing of my novels moves smoother
and more readers find me.
8 Southern Writers
08-09_Steve Bradshaw_So You Think You Can Write.indd 8
17/08/18 2:21 PM