How to Write a Damn Good Novel: A Step-by-Step No Nonsense Guide to Dramatic Storytelling

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Macmillan, Dec 15, 1987 - Language Arts & Disciplines - 174 pages

Unlock the Secrets of Storytelling: A Bestselling Author's Guide to Crafting Compelling Fiction

Written in a clear, crisp, accessible style, How to Write a Damn Good Novel is perfect for beginners and professional writers alike who need a crash course in the down-to-earth basics of storytelling. While talent and inspiration can't be taught, James N. Frey provides scores of helpful suggestions, sensible rules, and practical principles to help you hone your craft.

As an international bestseller, this book will enable all writers to face that intimidating first page, keep them on track when they falter, and help them recognize, analyze, and correct the problems in their own work. Whether you're a student in an MFA program, a self-taught novelist, or a writer looking to improve your skills, this comprehensive guide offers invaluable insights into the art of fiction writing.

Improve your storytelling techniques, overcome common writing challenges, and create compelling narratives with How to Write a Damn Good Novel, an essential reference for writers at any stage of their career.

 

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Contents

WHAT ITS ALL ABOUT IS WHO
1
THE THREE GREATEST RULES OF DRAMATIC WRITING CONFLICT CONFLICT CONFLICT
27
THE TYRANNY OF THE PREMISE OR WRITING A STORY WITHOUT A PREMISE IS LIKE ROWING A BOAT WITHOUT OARS
49
THE ABCS OF STORYTELLING
68
RISING TO THE CLIMAX OR THE PROOF OF THE PUDDING IS IN THE PREMISE
84
VIEWPOINT POINT OF VIEW FLASHBACKING AND SOME NIFTY GADGETS IN THE NOVELISTS BAG OF TRICKS
98
THE FINE ART OF GREAT DIALOGUE AND SENSUOUS DRAMATIC PROSE
122
REWRITING THE FINAL AGONIES
150
THE ZEN OF NOVEL WRITING
161
BIBLIOGRAPHY
173
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About the author (1987)

James N. Frey is the author of the internationally bestselling How to Write a Damn Good Novel and How to Write a Damn Good Novel, II, as well as nine novels. He has taught and lectured on creative writing at several different schools and conferences throughout the U.S. and Europe.