Writer Amitava Kumar discusses his daily writing habit and novel process. Co-hosts talk about writing voice and creativity. Plus segment on love for novels about ordinary life. Tips for developing daily writing practice and overcoming artist's block. Craft unique voices in writing for narrative intimacy.
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Quick takeaways
Developing a daily writing habit establishes discipline and nurtures creativity for successful writing.
Incorporating real-life details into storytelling adds depth while acknowledging sources maintains ethical writing practices.
Deep dives
Creating a Daily Writing Habit
Developing a daily writing habit is essential for aspiring writers. Writing every day, even a small amount like 150 words, helps in training the mind to work on command and not be overly precious about the creative process. Consistently writing, irrespective of inspiration levels, builds discipline and nurtures creativity, setting a foundation for successful writing.
Incorporating Real Life Details into Writing
Incorporating real-life details into storytelling adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Drawing inspiration from actual events, such as the story of the Soviet Union cosmonaut without a country, enhances the richness of the storytelling. However, ensuring proper credit and acknowledgment for borrowed elements is crucial to maintain ethical writing practices.
Developing Character Voices in Writing
Developing distinct character voices in writing involves a combination of intuition and deliberate differentiation from one's own persona. By separating the protagonist from the author and tapping into role-playing techniques, writers can craft compelling and authentic voices for their characters. Modulating the voice based on varied perspectives and backgrounds enriches the narrative and enhances character depth.
Exploring Different Writing Styles
Experimenting with different writing styles, such as delving into science fiction or fantastical genres, offers writers opportunities for creative exploration. From crafting space operas to envisioning alien civilizations, exploring diverse genres can spark imaginative storytelling and push the boundaries of traditional writing practices. Embracing new genres allows writers to challenge themselves and engage in metaphorical storytelling.
This week, host Isaac Butler talks to writer Amitava Kumar, whose latest novel is My Beloved Life. In the interview, Amitava discusses his habit of writing every day—a habit he strongly recommends to his students at Vassar College. Then he shares the process behind his new novel and explains how he drew upon other novels for inspiration.
After the interview, Isaac and co-host Ronald Young Jr. talk about daily writing practices, how to establish a writing voice, and much more.
In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Isaac and Amitava talk about how much they love novels about ordinary life.
Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to working@slate.com or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.
Podcast production by Cameron Drews.
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