Elmore Leonard: The Story-Writing Process

Author Elmore Leonard, multi-bestselling author, has written dozens of novels (several of which have been optioned and/or turned into Hollywood films, such as Get Shorty, Out of Sight, and Jackie Brown). Listen in as this publishing legend shares his story writing process, including how he usually starts with an idea for a character and the question of what happens next.

[@Rizzporsiempre]

Genius writer who can make art out of what looks like simplicity.

[@GS-sl5yd]

Very true. Outlining your work before you start writing a plot is like choking your very lungs, as such a kind of rationing your oxygen intake. You never know what ideas the very writing process itself will offer you in coming days; wait, and let it surprise you. Let the novel build itself, just be a vehicle, an observer of the process of writing. Let the act of writing be the writer, allow yourself to be surprised on the day to day basis. Like Elmore said, the ending is usually abrupt, for you were never the anchor of the process.

[@StudioNostalgik]

Such a talented writer.

[@visionplant]

Why do different Authors have different methods?

[@nikslegends9727]

PUBLISHERS: "This book ends rather abruptly."
ELMORE LEONARD: "I know, but it's over."
Lol

[@empiresandgenerals]

thank you!