The Art of Fiction Notes on Craft for Young Writers

This classic guide from the renowned novelist and professor has helped transform generations of aspiring writers into masterful writers—and will continue to do so for many years to come.   John Gardner was almost as famous as a teacher of creative writing as he was for his own works. In this practical instructive handbook based on the courses and seminars that he gave he explains simply and cogently the principles and techniques of good writing. Gardner’s lessons exemplified with detailed excerpts from classic works of literature sweep across a complete range of topics—from the nature of aesthetics to the shape of a refined sentence. Written with passion precision and a deep respect for the art of writing Gardner’s book serves by turns as a critic mentor and friend. Anyone who has ever thought of taking the step from reader to writer should begin here.