The One Thing to Elevate Your Writing Craft: Reading in Your Genre
Guess what the one thing is that can seriously up your writing game across the board—be it storytelling technique, genre nuances, or character development? It’s something super enjoyable yet incredibly powerful: reading within your genre. That’s right! Immersing yourself in the works of others who tread the same literary paths can do wonders for your craft. Here’s why it’s a game-changer.
Why Reading in Your Genre is a Must
When you dive into books within your genre, you’re not just reading—you’re absorbing. You get a feel for the narrative pulse that drives such stories, the rhythm and beats that resonate with fans. This isn’t about copying; it’s about understanding what makes a story tick, how emotions are best conveyed, or what makes dialogue pop. It’s about seeing different ways to weave plots and handle scenes, which in turn sparks your own creativity.
Reading works by other authors gives you a firsthand look at successful storytelling techniques. You’ll notice how they handle build-ups, climaxes, or character arcs. This kind of exposure is invaluable because it not only inspires but also teaches you to refine your own stories.
How It Fuels Your Creativity
Think of each book as a masterclass in storytelling. You’re seeing theory in action, learning from others who’ve excelled in your field. This isn’t about imitation but about inspiration and the art of possibility in storytelling. Each page you read builds your arsenal of techniques and ideas, allowing you to experiment and innovate in your own writing.
Setting Reading Goals
I set myself a goal to read at least one book in my genre every month. It keeps me connected to current trends and styles, and honestly, it’s just a lot of fun. I encourage you to pick out three to four new authors in your genre this year. Approach their works as both a reader enjoying a good story and as a writer eager to learn. It’s a win-win!
And Don’t Forget to Branch Out
While feasting on the literature of your chosen genre is essential, stepping out of it occasionally is also beneficial (but that’s a topic for another day!). For now, focus on building a solid foundation where you’re most passionate.
Let’s Get Reading!
What a fantastic job we have, where reading a good book counts as professional development! So, what’s the one thing you’ll read this month? Find that book, curl up with it, and let it stir your writer’s soul.
You can do it! Go! Write something brilliant!