No Write Way with V. E. Schwab

Bullsh-t still fertilizes: An interview with Chuck Wendig

Apr 4, 2023
In this engaging chat, Chuck Wendig, a talented writer known for his unique storytelling, shares insights into the wild world of writing. The duo dives into the chaos of managing multiple creative projects, revealing the balance between structure and spontaneity in storytelling. Chuck opens up about the journey from failed jobs to successful fiction, and the importance of camaraderie among writers. They also explore the emotional highs and lows authors face, including self-doubt and the joy found in the writing process.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Early Career and Breakthrough

  • Chuck Wendig began his writing career with many failed novels and odd freelance jobs.
  • His breakthrough came after winning a screenwriting competition that taught him to outline effectively.
ADVICE

Adapt Your Writing Process

  • Change your writing process when it stops working instead of blindly forcing one method.
  • Outlining is useful if your process isn't effective, not a mandatory step for every writer.
INSIGHT

Outlines as Maps, Not Roads

  • Having an ending for your story turns a vague desert of ideas into a traversable field.
  • Outlines are maps, not roads, and help guide but don't limit creative detours.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app