Speculation : Dorothea Brande on Becoming an Author

Dorothea Brande advises aspiring authors to start writing immediately after getting up. The purpose of this exercise is to unlock the subconscious and get it into words as relentlessly as possible. That is precisely why I am here.

It is the third day and since yesterday I have started questioning the effectiveness of this exercise. Whereas it really adds to the fluidity of one’s writing skill, at this stage I’m unsure if it helps at all getting our ideas across with the right set of words, communicative and legible sentences, and beneficial for developing the art of fiction writing. In my opinion, fiction writing is less about-it is quite important though- writing correctly and applying befitting words or phrases and is more about building up interest of the reader with intense or subtle dramatic effect while creating a novel insight in terms of plot, characters, and treatment of central theme.

What is suggested by her is undoubtedly a good practice for authors of nonfiction, who are sometimes professionally bound to produce thousands of words each day or even more. On the other hand, I feel overwriting occasionally leads to the infamous writer’s block for the authors of fiction. Once we invest ourselves into petty excitements, very soon we run out of words to capture greater moments. All of your passing thoughts do not deserve your attention for documentation. Let them flow away. Keep your words and artistic fervour protected for a few enlightening ones. Let them feel narcissistically special and in turn, benefit from their blessings too. Your story is your responsibility. Keep it sanctified and protected.