10 Lessons from the Best Writer in Tech | Paul Graham | How I Write Podcast
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Mar 29, 2024
Explore the unique writing philosophy that emphasizes clarity and simplicity, championed by a Silicon Valley icon. Discover how great writing comes from rigorous editing and the power of curiosity. Uncover the importance of surprising ideas to evoke laughter and insights. Reflect on personal preferences and guilty pleasures to inspire a distinctive voice. Finally, learn about the transformative impact of writing, particularly through personal blogging, on a new generation of creators.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Write Simply
Write simply and plainly, avoiding jargon and complex language.
Focus on clear communication and conveying substance over style.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Edit Obsessively
Great writing is the result of rewriting and editing.
Be a great deleter; remove unnecessary words and phrases.
insights INSIGHT
Lower the Stakes
Lower the stakes for your writing.
Write like you are casually communicating, which improves creativity.
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In 'Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas from the Computer Age,' Paul Graham delves into the motivations and activities of hackers and programmers. The book is a collection of essays that cover various topics such as the role of 'makers' in society, the design and complexity of software, the importance of beauty in software design, and the open-source movement. Graham also critiques the current educational system and discusses the historical and cultural context of hacking and programming. The essays provide an insightful look into what Graham calls 'an intellectual Wild West,' highlighting the significant impact of technology on how we think, work, and live.
Shantaram
Gregory David Roberts
Shantaram is a novel based on the life of the author, Gregory David Roberts. The story follows Lindsay 'Lin' Ford, an Australian bank robber and heroin addict who escapes from prison and flees to India. In Bombay, Lin immerses himself in the city's underworld, befriending a local guide named Prabaker and becoming involved in various activities including setting up a free health clinic in the slums, working with the mafia, and experiencing the diverse and vibrant culture of India. The novel is a rich tapestry of emotions, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human condition, and is known for its vivid portrayal of life in Bombay in the 1980s.
Paul Graham is one of the most successful writers and entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley.
Sure, he sold a company to Yahoo and co-founded Y Combinator, which has created hundreds of billions of dollars in value. But more than that, Paul is a renowned essayist and his thoughts on what makes good writing are worth paying attention to.
So, how has writing led to Paul Graham's success? I've deconstructed 11 of his best lessons and we're going to go through them one by one. Ultimately, you’ll learn the writing secrets behind this mega-successful investor, how he engages and delights his audience, and how you can, too.
Also, if you listen until the end, I have an unreleased goodie in here about what Sam Altman learned from Paul Graham. And I'm not going to share that anywhere else.
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