What follows are ten of the wittiest and most interesting quotes (or, if you prefer, quotations) by the great Samuel Johnson (1709-1784). Also known as Dr Johnson, he has often been praised for his wit and wisdom (and outspokenness) on all manner of subjects. He wrote only one novel, Rasselas (which he wrote rapidly to pay for … Read more
By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)
Ever fancied writing a novel, but don’t have oodles of spare time to set aside for such a thing? Michael Moorcock, a hugely influential and prolific writer, has the solution. Those of you who like the idea of #NaNoWriMo (or National Novel-Writing Month), but would rather set aside a few days to write rather than a whole month, may like ‘the Moorcock method’.
By Eric Nicholson Edgar Allan Poe wrote an essay, ‘The Philosophy of Composition’, in which he details the writing of his sensational poem ‘The Raven’. If we are to believe the account, he carefully planned the theme, the setting, the metre and every poetic effect – ‘each step with the precision of a mathematical problem’. … Read more
In this guest post, acclaimed author Warren Adler offers an impassioned defence of the study of English Literature and the Humanities and how majoring in English has made him who he is. I am a proud, grateful, and militant holder of a degree in English Literature. It has enhanced and enriched my life in ways … Read more
With NaNoWriMo or National Novel-Writing Month getting underway this weekend, writers all over the world are doubtless concerned about the prospect of facing writer’s cramp, writer’s block (dare we say it?), and the other occupational hazards that lie in wait for those who live their lives by the pen.