If there's one thing we know about Stephen King, it's that he knows a thing or two about crafting gripping narratives. He's earned his place in the pantheon of literature, and when he gives advice on the craft, we're wise to sit up and take notes.
So, what's King's take on letting others read your drafts? Should you lock it away in a dark, hidden folder on your computer until it's polished to perfection, or should you let it see the light of day in all its messy glory?
King suggests we do the latter. In his memoir-slash-writing manual, On Writing, he points out the importance of sharing your drafts with others, even when they're far from perfect. "Write with the door closed, rewrite with the door open," he famously advises.
What does this mean? Initially, you need to create in your private sanctuary, uninterrupted and uncensored. This is your opportunity to write freely, to follow your creative impulses, to shape your narrative without judgement or second-guessing.
But after that first draft is done, it's time to swing the door wide open. It's time to invite others in and let them see what you've created. This can be scary, I know. It’s like letting people see you in your pajamas with uncombed hair. But it's also crucial. Fresh eyes can help spot plot holes, inconsistent characterizations, or awkward sentences that you might have become blind to.
King's wife, Tabitha, is his primary beta reader and her feedback has saved a number of his novels. Did you know she was the one who pulled an early manuscript of Carrie from the trash and urged him to finish it? The rest, as they say, is history!
So don't shy away from sharing your draft. Find your "Tabitha"—it could be a writing group, a fellow author, a friend, or a professional editor. Embrace their feedback and use it to shape your raw gem into a polished diamond.
Remember, no book is written in a vacuum. Every great story is the product of a conversation, not just between the author and their imagination, but also with readers. It's a process of continuous refinement and evolution, and it starts with being brave enough to share your drafts.
Comments