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A review by lllhayes
Steering the Craft: Exercises and Discussions on Story Writing for the Lone Navigator or the Mutinous Crew by Ursula K. Le Guin
5.0
Steering The Craft is a meditation on (and practical guide to) writing itself; the sounds of words, how to structure them, the art of it, so to speak.
Le Guin doesn't pull punches. This is no gentle, welcoming introduction to technique, nor is it baby's first writing guide. But the author states as much in her introduction and although she can be blunt in her opinions, her voice is kind and thoughtful throughout, with an aim of helping you make the jump from intermediate writer to an author capable of honing their craft.
I really enjoyed her reverence towards particular writers and novels, excerpts of which are included for study in this book. It's made me want to read Jane Eyre, and reread Persuasion (something I was already planning!). But most of all, I will happily revisit this book someday, if only to give her writing exercises a go.
The wording of the advice is worded made this book a pleasure to read. Le Guin practised what she preached, about every word having purpose, never saying more or less than is needed.
Frankly, I'm goddamn inspired. Not only to go out there and reread my writing with a critical eye, but also to check out some classic authors like Brontë and Dickens, as well as Le Guin herself. I'd recommend this as a study in making a reference book humourous, personable, focused but never harsh.
Le Guin doesn't pull punches. This is no gentle, welcoming introduction to technique, nor is it baby's first writing guide. But the author states as much in her introduction and although she can be blunt in her opinions, her voice is kind and thoughtful throughout, with an aim of helping you make the jump from intermediate writer to an author capable of honing their craft.
I really enjoyed her reverence towards particular writers and novels, excerpts of which are included for study in this book. It's made me want to read Jane Eyre, and reread Persuasion (something I was already planning!). But most of all, I will happily revisit this book someday, if only to give her writing exercises a go.
The wording of the advice is worded made this book a pleasure to read. Le Guin practised what she preached, about every word having purpose, never saying more or less than is needed.
Frankly, I'm goddamn inspired. Not only to go out there and reread my writing with a critical eye, but also to check out some classic authors like Brontë and Dickens, as well as Le Guin herself. I'd recommend this as a study in making a reference book humourous, personable, focused but never harsh.