02 May Book Review of Stein on Writing
Discovering Stein on Writing: A Reader’s Perspective
When I stumbled upon Stein on Writing by Sol Stein, I was intrigued—partly because I’m a passionate reader and reviewer, yet, quite disconnected from the world of writing. As someone who absorbs stories rather than creating them, I found the prospect of diving into Stein’s expert advice both alluring and slightly daunting. However, I was eager to see if the wisdom of this author, editor, and publisher might illuminate my understanding of the craft and ultimately enhance my enjoyment of the novels I cherish.
Stein’s book is a treasure trove of insights aimed primarily at fiction writers, though he does sprinkle in some invaluable nuggets for nonfiction. His advice, presented in a crisp, engaging manner, feels like a heartfelt conversation rather than a dry lecture. I particularly resonated with his commandment to "imbue your heroes with faults" and "your villains with charm." It reflects my strong preference for characters that feel deeply flawed and authentically human; after all, aren’t our imperfections what make us relatable?
One of my opening discoveries was Stein’s clarity around the often-quoted advice to “cut adverbs.” As someone who has adored the colorful and vivid prose of authors like J.K. Rowling and Georgette Heyer, I was initially skeptical. Stein’s nuanced perspective reassured me, showing that while many adjectives and adverbs may indeed clutter writing, they can also sparkle when used judiciously. His admiration for a striking paragraph by Linda Katmarian—a “nearly perfect paragraph”—absolutely captured my imagination. Reading it, I felt the rush of emotion through those richly descriptive choices, reminding me that words can create a visceral experience.
I also appreciated his discussion on particularity in writing, illustrated by John LeCarré’s vivid description of an envelope. That simple exchange turned into a moment that felt alive and authentic, pulling me deeper into the narrative with each detail. There’s power in those ordinary particulars, a lesson I suspect any writer, or even the curious reader, would do well to absorb.
While Stein’s insights resonated, I found myself slightly at odds with him on a couple of points, particularly regarding the three-page rule and the notion of ending scenes prematurely. I believe that, especially in our digital age, a gripping customer review or an engaging book summary can outweigh the necessity of captivating readers within those first three pages. Moreover, Stein seems to overlook the frustration that leaving scenes too abruptly can create for readers—something I wish he had tackled more thoroughly.
In conclusion, Stein on Writing is a delightful gem for writers and readers alike. It crafts a bridge between the two realms, showcasing the mechanics of storytelling while personifying the emotional connections that literature fosters. This book would be perfect for aspiring authors seeking grounded guidance or avid readers like myself looking to deepen their appreciation of well-constructed narratives. Ultimately, as I turned the final page, I found myself inspired and enriched, feeling more equipped to embrace the next book I pick up.
