# Why New Writers Should Prioritize Reading Over Writing
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Chapter 1: The Importance of Reading for Writers
With a heart full of excitement, you settle down at your desk, ready to write the novel you believe will become a bestseller. Yet, as you stare at the blank screen, the cursor blinks back at you, and words fail to materialize.
When you embark on your writing journey—whether it’s freelance content creation, blogging, academic writing, or fiction—you will often hear the advice to read extensively. More importantly, it's suggested that you read the genre you wish to write in.
This advice has merit: the authors you admire have successfully navigated the same path you’re on. By consuming their works, you expose yourself to examples of writing that have been recognized as ‘good’, which can guide your own writing journey.
But hold on a second.
If I aspire to craft a bestselling fantasy novel, I've immersed myself in classics like The Lord of the Rings, A Game of Thrones, and The Name of the Wind. Certainly, reading these bestsellers qualifies me to write one too, right?
Yet, if pressed to articulate why these books achieved bestseller status, I find myself at a loss. While I could mention elements like world-building and character arcs, many stories boast rich worlds and compelling characters but still don’t reach the bestseller lists.
What’s going on here?
Read with Purpose
When we engage with a compelling story, we often get lost in its narrative. We become emotionally invested, turning pages eagerly to uncover the outcome. Enjoyment is paramount, but this experience doesn’t necessarily teach us about effective writing.
To truly improve our craft, we must not only read frequently but also read with a specific purpose. This often involves revisiting texts. If you’re a writer who doesn’t enjoy reading, it might be time to reconsider your path.
- On your first read, savor the story.
- On your second, analyze the content.
- On your third, dissect the language.
Enhancing Writing Through Intentional Reading
That’s quite a bit of reading!
I’m not suggesting you reread A Game of Thrones from start to finish while scrutinizing every detail. Instead, approach select chapters with a critical mindset. Delve into the choices made by George R.R. Martin: how he transitions between scenes, the emotions he evokes, and the story's pacing. Reflect on the reasoning behind these techniques.
Take your time. Focus on a few chapters at a time, mapping out the elements at play in each section. Always contemplate the motivations behind the author’s choices.
Next, analyze the specifics: the sentences, the language, the vivid descriptions. If a line of dialogue sticks with you, dissect what makes it impactful.
A memorable moment from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire comes to mind, where Harry observes the sentencing of Death Eaters, notably Barty Crouch Junior. The dialogue and interactions in such scenes can enrich our writing if we take the time to analyze them closely.
By deeply examining these moments, we can glean insights into effective writing techniques.
When learning an instrument, you start by playing pieces composed by others. Once you’ve honed your skills, you can create your own music. Similarly, when you embark on your writing journey, emulating established authors is a wise strategy. With practice, you'll find your unique voice.
Video Insights
How to Read Like a Writer (to become a better writer) - This video offers valuable strategies for reading with the intent to improve your writing skills.
My TOP 6 REASONS Why Writers Should Read More Books - This video discusses the essential reasons why reading is crucial for writers looking to enhance their craft.
By engaging with the work of authors like Rob Jackson and countless others on platforms like Medium, you not only enrich your own writing journey but also contribute to the community that supports these creatives.