"Reading is the creative center of a writer's life. I take a book with me everywhere I go, and find there are all sorts of opportunities to dip in. The trick is to teach yourself to to read in small sips as well as in long swallows."
I usually have a couple of books going at the same time when I'm reading. There is always one by my bed for night-time reading and I always have one at work for lunch-time reading.
I usually take a book with me when I know there is going to be a waiting time. Times such as doctor's appointments or airports, you know what I mean. I love it when I have something to pass my time enjoyably and sometimes get dirty looks from people who are forced to sit there and just stare at the walls because they didn't have the foresight to bring entertainment.
I only have half an hour for lunch so that reading time is definitely a small sip, but one I find I look forward to each weekday. A small slice of escape and I make myself stop at the beginning of a new chapter when time is up. Sometimes it's in the middle of something good, so I can't wait until tomorrow's lunch to get back into it. I haven't mastered reading while walking on the treadmill, but think it would be a good talent to keep pursuing. Talk about a win-win situation.
I think if you keep reading the kinds of books that you want to write, you will pick up skills as to how things are done or what not to do. And you also find out what has been done over and over - to think outward to new scenarios, not just the old standbys.
0 comments:
Post a Comment