Neil Gaiman’s 8 Rules of Writing: Wisdom for Aspiring Authors
By Olivia Salter
Neil Gaiman, the acclaimed author of novels, graphic novels, and short stories, has shared his insights on writing through a set of eight rules. These guidelines offer valuable advice for both aspiring and seasoned writers. Let’s delve into each rule and explore how they can enhance your writing journey.
1. Write
At first glance, this rule seems obvious. However, Neil Gaiman emphasizes that many people want to write or think about writing but never actually put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). The essential step to becoming a writer is to write consistently. Even if you feel unprepared or uncertain, start writing. The act of putting words down is where creativity begins.
2. Put One Word After Another
Crafting a story involves building it word by word. Gaiman encourages writers to focus on finding the right words and putting them down. Sometimes, we get stuck searching for the perfect word, which can hinder progress. His advice? Keep moving forward. Put one word after another, and don’t let the pursuit of perfection paralyze you. If you can’t find the exact word, use placeholders (like “[ ]”) and revisit it later.
3. Finish What You’re Writing
Completing a project can be challenging. We often struggle with self-doubt, wanting to perfect every sentence before moving forward. Gaiman reminds us that it’s essential to finish what we start. Whether it’s a short story, novel, or essay, push through to the end. You can always revise and improve later, but having a completed draft is crucial.
4. Put It Aside and Read It Anew
This rule encompasses several important steps:
- Put it aside: Allow your work to rest for at least two weeks. Author-brain tends to see what we wish was there, not what actually exists. Distance helps you read your work with fresh eyes.
- Read it pretending you’ve never seen it before: Imagine you’re a reader encountering your piece for the first time. If something isn’t clear or engaging, make necessary adjustments.
- Seek feedback from trusted friends: Share your work with friends who appreciate your genre. Their insights can guide you toward improvements.
5. Listen to Feedback
When others point out flaws or areas that don’t work, they are often right. Be open to constructive criticism. However, when they suggest specific fixes, remember that they might not always be correct. Trust your instincts and make informed decisions.
6. Fix It
Editing is part of the writing process. If something doesn’t work, revise it. Don’t be afraid to cut, rearrange, or rewrite. Perfection isn’t the goal; clarity and impact are.
7. Laugh at Your Own Jokes
Writing can be serious, but humor adds depth and relatability. Don’t shy away from injecting wit or irony into your work. If you find something amusing, chances are your readers will too.
8. Write with Assurance and Confidence
Neil Gaiman’s most famous rule: “The main rule of writing is that if you do it with enough assurance and confidence, you’re allowed to do whatever you like.” Whether in writing or life, trust your voice. Tell your story honestly, authentically, and with conviction. There are no other rules that truly matter.
So, fellow writers, embrace these rules, write boldly, and create stories that resonate with your unique voice.
Neil Gaiman's rules provide practical wisdom for writers, emphasizing action, persistence, and authenticity. Whether you’re penning a novel, a blog post, or a heartfelt letter, remember that writing is an adventure—one where you’re allowed to explore, experiment, and create without restraint.
Happy writing!
👉 Neil Gaiman's Books @Amazon 👈
