Book Two
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The second book I’m covering is clearly non-fiction, but I enjoyed it so much I wanted to share. Original publication was 1976 (four years before I was born) and has been updated and added to along the years. I read it quickly (for me), especially for a non-fiction piece. The book is broken into twenty four (small bite) chapters, that can be read easily while dinner is being cooked, before bed, etc. It’s a no nonsense, stripped down to bare bones instructional guide on how to write non-fiction more efficiently, and most important: with more clarity and confidence.
I both enjoyed and respected the book and how it is written so much, that I immediately returned to the beginning and started it again. Something I have (almost) never done before. I did this for two reasons: one being I know how my attention span works and where my deficits are in respect to apprehension as well as retention and I wanted to glean as much as I can from this jewel of a book. I will not try and explain the authors methods or ideas as I feel that would be a mistake. But I will say that if you are trying to become a better writer and have not yet read this book-now is the time to get after it.
In closing I will say that the book sheds light in a simple and straightforward way of how to become a better writer in (many) ways that resonate immediately. My favorite parts are how Mr. Zinsser consistently uses comparisons to carpentry and other crafts to writing fundamentals that not only make sense, but are beautifully artful. Last thought: this book is already very well known in the world of writing well, but if you have happened to miss it-take advantage now and buy a copy (or two). Thank you for reading and please subscribe below.
More books to follow!
