A Picture That Leads to a Thousand Words
For writers, it's usually only the words that matter. But author Jane Langton is a bit different. This mystery writer starts out by sketching illustrations of her story, and then knits together her tale from there. Her method got me thinking — this could be a very useful tactic for those suffering from writer's block. Take a break from those obstinate words and just freehand the images bouncing around in your head instead. Even if the drawings are rough, this gives your brain a fleshed-out point from which to pick the story back up, and allows you to approach things with a new perspective. It's worth a shot.
[Thanks, Nina!]
I really enjoy your site. This was a great interview but I most liked your advice to cure writer's block by drawing. I draw and write and it's a wonderful cross pollination. Thanks for your blog!
ReplyDeleteI've been a Jane Langton fan since 1961 when I read "The Majesty of Grace Jones." "The Diamond in the Window" and its sequels are among my all-time favorites. Did you know that the sketches shown in the video are the basis for the illustrations in her Homer Kelly mysteries for adults?
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joy – you've made my day!
ReplyDeleteNann – no, I didn't know that, that's fascinating. I envy that she can develop a story via two media, and do it well in both ways.