Mementomarie

People have always asked me how to write. How do you choose words? What perspective
should I follow? Should I use the Aristotelian form or not? We have always been hounded by the
technicality of writing that we become technically paralyzed when we hold a pen in our hands.

I never choose what I read, but I have my choice whether I’ll continue reading it. There are
countless tips, books, and articles about how to write; but this is not one of them. I may not be a
professional writer, but I am a serious reader. And as a reader, I’ll tell you –

HOW NOT TO WRITE.

 Do not write to impress. Some people use high sounding words just to tell the reader that they
have a wide vocabulary. We should keep in mind that we do no write to be regarded to be
fluent but rather to be understood by the readers. Words are just letters; ideas are the ones that
give words meaning.
 Do not write and run. Some writers are guilty of writing without revising. Before submitting an
article, read what you have written – be your own first critic. Do not be afraid to ask for a
second, third, and fourth opinion. Ask yourself, “is my work worth reading?”
 Do not look for morals. Your work does not have to be a fairy tale. Your work t does not limit
you to lessons on “good versus evil”; the wickedness of evil and the sanctity of goodness. Think
outside the box.
 Do not write without a goal. Just like driving, your writing should have a destination. Anyone
can start an article, but a good writer should have a clear picture on ending it. If you drive
without direction, you’re just wasting gasoline – both yours and your readers.
 Do not spoon-feed. Don’t give too many facts that will overwhelm your readers. Readers tend
to be confused with too much detail. If you’re the kind of writer who loves to write for facts,
write for an Encyclopedia. Give readers a chance to follow your thoughts; allow your readers to
think.
 Do not be discouraged. No matter how many criticisms you face regarding your writing style or
grammar, don’t let it control you. A ship will sink only if the water gets in. Just continue writing.
My advice is to be fond of reading. Reading is your key to ideas; ideas that you can use when
you write.
 Do not be afraid. Part of the life of a writer is to stand firm to your principles. Always stick to the
truth and be brave on facing the consequences of your decisions. “Only by being selfless can one
be fearless (Mao)”. If you write not solely for yourself, you have no reason to doubt and fear.

“If God gives you something you can do, why in God’s name wouldn’t you do it?” – Stephen King

If you know how to write, be proud. Words that give knowledge are useless if not passed to those who
need it. Always bear in yourself the desire to share your thoughts. Write just about anything. Do not
think of unity, coherence and technicalities. Write freely. Write a lot.