The Secret to Telling a Great Story [Poetic Devices]

Writing Process

Amor Towles shares his meticulous approach to writing, emphasizing the importance of planning and outlining. He describes how his process begins with a vivid visualization of scenes, characters, and settings, which he meticulously documents in notebooks over several years. This detailed preparation allows him to free up his creative side during the actual writing process, enabling poetic and artistic expression.

I plan, design and outline before I start writing. That can sound very left brain meaning very analytical, very precise, very organized. The reason that I do that, though, is in order to free up the right side of my brain when I'm in the writing process.

--- Amor Towles

Towles' method ensures that when he finally sits down to write, he can focus on crafting the language and bringing the story to life without being bogged down by unresolved details 1 2.

   

Clarity & Structure

Clarity and structure are pivotal in Towles' writing process, as they provide a foundation for creativity. He believes that having a clear outline allows writers to explore the poetic aspects of storytelling without the distraction of figuring out plot details on the fly. This approach not only enhances narrative flow but also ensures that the writing remains engaging and purposeful.

Inspiration is what comes to them when they're at their desk, right? It's not something that you don't wait to become inspired and then go to your desk, because if you do that, you will never make any progress.

--- Amor Towles

By adhering to a disciplined routine, Towles and many of his peers find that inspiration emerges naturally from the act of writing itself 3 4.

   

Editing & Revision

Editing and revision are crucial stages in Towles' writing process, where he refines his work to achieve a polished final product. He views editing as an art form that requires stepping back and assessing the pacing and engagement of the narrative. Towles emphasizes the need to read one's work as if for the first time, ensuring that it remains compelling and free of unnecessary elements.

If I find it boring on the third read, then the reader is definitely going to run the risk of finding boring.

--- Amor Towles

This iterative process of revision helps Towles to sharpen his prose, ensuring that each sentence serves the story and captivates the reader 2 5.