Hints and tips for writers anyone?

I thought this month I would jot down a few of my thoughts about writing. I have to warn you, they are a pretty random group of quotes and hints I’ve tried to take to heart on my own writing journey,

Writing is age ignorant.

You can begin at any age. The important thing is sitting in the chair and writing - because that’s what you want and need to do. If finding time to do this is a problem, make a date with your diary and schedule in a time, or get up early, go to bed late.

The art of writing is all about the inspiration of the moment and the excitement of riding the wave of an idea. 

Elizabeth George in Write Away.

Every writer is different.

You need to follow your own path. Do not get hung up on what every other writer is doing, their 5* reviews or the way they work. Go at your own speed - but GO.

Story is king but you need structure:

Writing fiction is not ‘self-expression’ or ‘therapy’. Novels are for readers and writing them means the crafty, patient, selfless construction of effects. 

Sarah Waters

Edit, edit, edit, and . . .Edit

Yes, you will be thoroughly fed up with your story by the time you’ve been through it for what seems like the hundredth times but every edit will improve the story. Never, ever send a piece of writing out to an editor or publisher before you’re 100% satisfied that you’ve given it your best shot. 

Print out Elmore Leonard’s famous saying and pin it above your desk:

If it sounds like writing I re-write it   -  this one applies to dialogue too. Read it aloud.

Work through crises of confidence and know that every writer can suffer from them. The only way is to keep going.

Look after your back. Hours huddled over a keyboard do it no favours. Get a decent chair, make sure you stand up and move away from the keyboard for five minutes every hour.

Writing is a marathon rather than a sprint . Start writing the next book as soon as you can after writing The End on one. When you do land a publishing deal remember it’s a case of playing the long game! Very few authors obtain the dizzy heights of six figure advances - having a back list helps.

And my final tip? This one from Jack London:

‘You can’t wait for inspiration, you have to go after it with a club.’

Anyone got any hints or tips to add?