During my teenage years, when I really started to read a lot, three authors stood out as my favorites: Stephen King, John Irving, and Pat Conroy. Here’s one of the many things I learned from each novelist that I try to apply to my writing every day:
I learned from Stephen King that if you create real and likable characters, you can put them into any situation (and I mean ANY). I fell in love with his stories because of the people, not because of the terror unleashed on them.
I learned from John Irving a quote he once said regarding his characters: “What’s the worst thing that can happen?” I also saw the power of an ending. A Prayer For Owen Meany is one of my favorite novels, and it all builds to that ending.
I learned from Pat Conroy that it’s okay to take experiences from your own life and put them into a fictitious form. That it can be healing in a certain way. I also learned the power and the beauty of language. As a novelist, I’m probably closest to King in terms of writing style. I tried to write my Pat Conroy novel but realized I can’t construct language like The Prince of Tides (very few can). I tried to write my epic Irving-esque coming-of-age Owen Meany story but failed again. That’s okay. At least I tried.
These three authors were my favorites during those informative teen years. I still have all their works on the shelves behind me. I admire the work they’ve done, the highs and the lows of their careers. I often pick out my favorite novels they’ve written to read sections, simply to admire the writing and to see how it was done. And to try and see if I can continue to learn a little something from it.
I really appreciate your honesty and humility. You seem to recognize what you do well and also to ponder on ways that you could improve.
Thank you. It's refreshing to see this sort of attitude in an author.
I so agree with Stephen King. I watch some movies many times and reread certain books often because I "miss" the characters. They are so likeable.
I truly liked Chris Buckley in Solitary and Jake Rivers in Admission. I still remember cetain characters from books I've read many, many years ago. Their peronalities are so strong and endearing; it's almost as though they're real people.
Keep writing with heart and soul, and we'll keep reading.