Words from the Wise: Writing Quotes to Inspire You
Need a little boost to get those creative juices flowing? We’ve gathered some favourite quotes from well-known writers — all about perseverance, creativity, and the writing process. Whether you’re entering THE GREAT KIWI WRITE OFF COMPETITION or just love to write, let these words guide and inspire you.
- “You should write because you love the shape of stories and sentences and the creation of different words on a page.” – Annie Proulx (American Author)
- “I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.” – Robert Louis Stevenson (Scottish Novelist)
- “This is how you do it: you sit down at the keyboard and you put one word after another until it’s done. It’s that easy, and that hard.” – Neil Gaiman
- “If you’re using dialogue, say it aloud as you write it. Only then will it have the sound of speech.” – John Steinbeck
- “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time — or the tools — to write. Simple as that.” – Stephen King
- “Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” – Anton Chekhov | This is a very important point. Show readers what you want them to see, do not assume they see things as you do. Take them to the place, the situation and share the moment with them as if they are right there with you.
- “Never use a long word where a short one will do.” – George Orwell
- “A short story must have a single mood and every sentence must build towards it.” – Edgar Allen Poe
- “Every sentence must do one of two things — reveal character or advance the action.” – Kurt Vonnegut
Remember, every great writer starts with a single word — and a bit of inspiration can go a long way. We hope these quotes spark your creativity and encourage you to give THE GREAT KIWI WRITE OFF COMPETITION a go. Happy writing — we can’t wait to see what you create!