Learning the process
Filed under Writing Journal on August 25, 2004
Tagged: Shannara, Terry Brooks
I read an interview with Terry Brooks last week, done by his publisher Del Rey to coincide with the 25th Anniversary of The Sword of Shannara (back in 2002). The last question, and more importantly Terry’s answer, struck me the most:
DR: Okay, last question: the first two volumes in the Voyage of the Jerle Shannara trilogy, ILSE WITCH and ANTRAX, earned some of the best reviews of your career. In what ways are you a better writer now than when you started? What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about the craft of writing in your career, and how did you learn it?
TB: I think I am a better writer now than I was twenty-five years ago, although not necessarily a better storyteller. There is a difference. Writing is a craft, and I think I am a better craftsman now than I was then. I’ve learned how to write professionally, and I don’t struggle with the process like I once did. The most important thing I’ve learned about the craft is to do the best you can to prepare for the actual writing, but to understand going in that the writing will inform you in unexpected ways. Until you actually do the writing, you can’t know everything that is going to happen.
I know what Terry means. I’ve always thought of myself as a good writer, but I’ve discovered that I am not. What I am is a good storyteller. In writing Maiden of Pain, I am learning how to write professionally. I’m discovering what it takes to create a well-thought out and finely crafted story. I’m seeing how much time and effort really goes in to penning a 90,000 word novel. And I’m working with an editor for the first time, something that has made me realize that professional writing is more of a team sport than I initially considered.
It’s a struggle, but it’s good to hear that if I persevere, the process will become as easy as the storytelling.
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