I Met 20 of The World's Greatest Writers. Here's What I Learned.

521 snips

Jan 24, 2024

As the new year begins, the speaker reflects on key insights from conversations with acclaimed writers. Discover Tim Ferriss's strategy of high/low quality standards and Marc Andreessen's unique information consumption approach. Dive into the art of 'word painting' and explore the mystery of femininity in storytelling. Learn about the importance of engaging with niche literature to foster originality. This insightful discussion highlights the balance between creativity and personal growth in the writing journey, revealing transformative lessons along the way.

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ADVICE

Quality Over Quantity

Set a low bar for inputs but maintain high standards for outputs.
Focus on consistent progress, even if it's just "two crappy pages" daily, like Tim Ferriss.

ADVICE

Refining Your Writing

Ask friends for feedback on the strongest and weakest 20% of your writing.
Hire a lawyer to review your work and identify ambiguities in your arguments.

INSIGHT

Be the Only

Don't strive to be the best; aim for uniqueness.
Pursue work so unique it lacks a name, like Kevin Kelly advises.

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The Art of Biography

A Guide to Writing Lives

David McCullough

David McCullough's "The Art of Biography" is a insightful exploration of the craft of writing biographies. McCullough, a renowned biographer himself, shares his expertise and experience, offering guidance on various aspects of the process. He discusses the importance of research, the challenges of portraying complex individuals, and the ethical considerations involved in writing about real people. The book is a valuable resource for aspiring biographers and a fascinating read for anyone interested in the art of storytelling. It provides a deep understanding of the skills and dedication required to create compelling and accurate biographies.

On Writing

A Memoir of the Craft

Stephen King

This book is both a memoir and a writing guide. It details Stephen King's life, from his childhood and early writing endeavors to his struggles with addiction and his near-fatal accident in 1999. The book is divided into sections that cover King's life ('C.V.'), the nature of writing ('What Writing Is'), writing mechanics ('Toolbox'), his advice on the craft ('On Writing'), and his recovery from the accident ('On Living: A Postscript'). King offers practical tips on writing, including the importance of vocabulary, grammar, and style, as well as the need for consistent writing routines and ruthless editing. He emphasizes that good writing comes from within, driven by curiosity, wonder, and emotional honesty rather than commercial motives.

The consolation of philosophy

Boethius

Boethius's 'Consolation of Philosophy' is a philosophical treatise written while he awaited execution. The work explores themes of fortune, adversity, and the nature of good and evil. Through a dialogue between Boethius and Lady Philosophy, the text examines the relationship between God and the world, grappling with questions of divine providence and human suffering. It offers a blend of philosophical and theological perspectives, providing solace and insight into the challenges of life. The book remains a significant work in the history of philosophy and theology.

The Book of Acts

Acts of the Apostles

Luke the Evangelist

The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and serves as a sequel to the Gospel of Luke. It chronicles the history of the early Christian church, beginning with the ascension of Jesus Christ and ending with Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The book is divided into two main sections: the first focuses on the ministry of Peter in Jerusalem and Samaria (Acts 1–12), and the second follows Paul's missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire (Acts 13–28). It highlights the transition of the gospel message from a Jewish audience to the Gentiles, the empowerment of believers by the Holy Spirit, and the growth of the church despite persecutions. The book also explores the relationship between Christians and the Roman Empire, showing how Christians could obey both God and the civil authorities[2][3][5].

The book of Hebrews

Dr Peter S. Ruckman

This commentary by Dr. Peter S. Ruckman provides a detailed and conservative interpretation of the Book of Hebrews. It is designed to help readers understand the doctrine and significance of this biblical book, which is often considered one of the most misinterpreted. The commentary is part of The Bible Believer's Commentary Series and is intended for those interested in a literal and doctrinally sound analysis of the scripture.

The Daily Pressfield

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Steven Pressfield

The 4 Hour Workweek

Timothy Ferriss

In 'The 4-Hour Workweek', Timothy Ferriss presents a step-by-step guide to 'lifestyle design', encouraging readers to question the traditional notion of retirement and instead create a lifestyle that prioritizes freedom, adventure, and personal growth. The book teaches how to outsource life tasks, automate income, and eliminate unnecessary work using principles like the 80/20 rule and Parkinson’s Law. Ferriss shares his personal journey from a corporate workaholic to a location-independent entrepreneur and provides practical tips and case studies to help readers achieve similar results. The book emphasizes the importance of focusing on high-value activities, taking 'mini-retirements', and living life to the fullest in the present rather than deferring enjoyment until retirement.

Excellent Advice for Living

Wisdom I Wish I'd Known Earlier

Kevin Kelly

Excellent Advice for Living is a compilation of Kevin Kelly's life wisdom, initially written for his young adult children on his 68th birthday. The book features 450 aphorisms that cover a wide range of topics, from setting ambitious goals and optimizing generosity to cultivating compassion and practical advice on career, relationships, parenting, and finances. Kelly's advice is designed to be accessible and applicable to all ages, emphasizing the importance of kindness, decency, and generosity of spirit. The book is praised for its straightforward and memorable guidance, making it an ideal companion for anyone seeking to navigate life with grace and creativity.

Against Method

Outline of an Anarchistic Theory of Knowledge

Ian Hacking

Paul Feyerabend

In this book, Paul Feyerabend challenges traditional views of scientific methodology by arguing that science should be an anarchic enterprise. He contends that the imposition of methodological rules can hinder scientific progress and that 'anything goes' is a necessary stance to encourage innovation and pluralism in science. The book includes detailed case studies, such as Galileo's hypothesis that the Earth rotates on its axis, to illustrate how scientists have profitably violated established rules. Feyerabend rejects the distinction between the context of discovery and the context of justification, arguing that such distinctions are not reflected in scientific practice and could have disastrous consequences if enforced[1][2][3].