The Most Important Things When It Comes To Writing (For Me) 2024

I have put a date on this because I know already it’s going to be something I come back to. I have also explicitly stated that this is specific to me, because one of the great things about writing is that it’s different for everyone. These are things I have learned over years of practice, talks, workshops, and from reading reviews. 

I am a big believer in “reviews are for readers, not for the authors”. People are going to like your work, they’re going to feel meh about it, they’re going to love it and despise it. That’s the name of the game. 

I have, however, found it useful to see what reviewers say when they’re frustrated with a book (not written by me) (I am sensitive). What wasn’t working for you, and why? What bugged you about that narrative device or character? I’m writing for an audience, so I like to know what they find satisfying and what will make them throw a book out of a window.

ANYWAY. A buddy of mine (hi bud) recently asked me what I thought the most important things were when it came to writing. A big question, but a good one. Here’s my answer.