Here’s another statement some have attributed to him:
“In theory, theory and practice are the same thing. In practice, they’re not.”
In theory, a person ought to be able to take a few good characters and an intriguing story line; mix them with generous dollops of authentic dialogue and smooth narration; stir in the zest of conflict; then taste, adjust seasonings and taste again, and create a best seller.
In practice, it takes a lot more practice. Theory’s fine, but if you don’t practice the techniques (and write, write, write), I figure the most you’re going to create is a novel that in theory could be a best seller, but in practice — nuh-uh.
This week end I’m off to practice. And practice some more.
How about you?
And then there’s that undefinable thing – tapping into who you are to put some life on the page. Theory + practice + magic = great fiction. IMO
Hi Robin! Yes – magic!! May it always be part of our lives. And our writing.