BBC Writers cover image

BBC Writers

Ask the Write Questions with David Nicholls

Oct 20, 2020
Writer David Nichols discusses adapting novels to screenplays, navigating challenges in writing, giving advice to new writers, and exploring the writing process and research. He shares insights on work ethic, starting a writing career, and hints at a new project based on the novel 'Sweet Sorrow'.
39:42

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Choosing between screenwriting and novel writing based on story best fit.
  • Building resilience and confidence to handle criticism and rejection in writing.

Deep dives

Writer's Approach to Writing for Screen vs. Novel

The writer discusses the difference in approach between writing for the screen and writing a novel. While considering an idea for a project, he reflects on whether it would work best on the page or on screen. He highlights the importance of a character's point of view, acknowledging that the medium influences how the story is portrayed. The writer emphasizes the unique aspects of storytelling in screenwriting versus novel writing, including character-centered storytelling in novels and the need for world-building in screenplays.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode