The Faith of a Writer
Life, Craft, Art

By Joyce Carol Oates

    The Faith of a Writer is a series of twelve essays about writing by Joyce Carol Oates, one of the best and most prolific writers today. There is also an interview with Ms. Oates written by Greg Johnson. These essays cover every aspect of writing. Here, Ms. Oates answers some of the frequently asked questions about writers and their craft.

    One of those questions is usually, "When did you know you wanted to be a writer?" To that, Ms. Oates replies that she never really knew that she wanted to be a writer; she just became one when she found she liked writing. She also tells us about her early schooling and the literature she read and what stuck with her.

     From there, she discusses the art and craft of writing. Her advice to a young writer is particularly interesting to me. It applies to the beginner no matter what age he or she may be. I find it to be very sound advice.

    I also read her views on self-criticism with interest. She says that it is akin to self brain surgery - not a good idea. It is the reader who will ultimately judge the work, not the author. The author tends to be too paranoid and will often destroy a masterpiece because he or she feels it’s awful. Perversely, an author might cling to a particularly bad piece of writing, having a distorted view of its worth.

    The other essays are equally helpful, discussing what to read - basically everything - because you can learn from everything, even if it is what not to do. Ms. Oates also explains that physical movement will improve your writing. She also describes where she writes and how it affects her writing.

    This is a book every writer will find helpful. Pick up a copy and enjoy. You will improve many aspects of your craft.