How to Write Everything/How to Be a Writer

How to Write Everything/How to Be a Writer by David Quantick (2014/2016 Bloomsbury paperback 180pp/220pp)

 

David Quantick is a UK writer who over his 40 plus year career has written just about everything – from television to fiction to journalism and even poetry. He always seems to being on the verge of fame, just about a household name but not quite. He most recently has been producing several well-received novels and has appeared as a guest on several podcasts which is where he first came to my attention.

In these two books he attempts to pass on his experience and wisdom to budding writers and those just interested in what goes on behind the scenes.

The first volume “How to Write Everything” is a more practical guide to the craft. The author starts with general musings on writing and writers before moving on to the thorny old question of ‘where do ideas come from?’ From there the book is divided into sections, each exploring a different form of writing – comedy, films, scripts and journalism etc. In areas in which he feels he lacks expertise he interviews those more directly involved.

There are tips and hints and general encouragement along the way as well as a certain attitude recognising that writers are compelled to write anyway and it may not be something everyone can do.

The second volume “How to Be a Writer” is a bit of a change of pace, consisting mainly of Quantick’s interviews with his fellow writers and others involved in the writing business. Some famous faces such as Caitlin Moran make an appearance. The author attempts to keep the theme to what a writer’s typical day consists of but the discussions go all over the place. A frequent topic is money and financial issues – it seems nobody is getting very rich in the writing game.

Both books are written with a great sense of humour and charm. Quantick can’t resist a gag and displays a typical UK style of sarcasm and irony. At around 200 pages each both volumes are a quick read and you’ll feel entertained and perhaps enlightened. These are not the usual ‘follow your dreams’ self-help guides you might have expected.