Kissing the Demon : 6 reasons why it is a must have book for writers

Kissing the Demon – By Amrita Kumar is�authentic and straightforward � a must have for new/aspiring writers. For me, reading this book was not just a learning experience but a wonderful reading experience too. As a new writer, I always look for �On Writing� posts, and a complete book can be a real treat, no? So, when I got a chance to read and review �Kissing the Demon� by Amrita Kumar, a quick (and big) yes was quite natural. Here’s why I think this book is a must have new writers and one of the best creative writing handbook that I have come across.\n

\n

\n

[ttshare]’Good fiction draws out the truth from a web of lies.’ � Amrita Kumar, Kissing the Demon[/ttshare]

\n

\n

\nThe title of this book is based on what George Orwell had once said about writing � �writing is a horrible exhausting experience, like a long bout of some painful illness, and that he wouldn�t have written a single book were he not driven by some demon that he could neither resist nor understand.�\n\nThe author, Amrita Kumar, is an anthologist, novelist, writing mentor and creative writing teacher. She worked as associate editor in Penguin India; editor-in-chief, Roli Books; Managing editor, Encyclopedia Britannica, Osian�s Literary Agency. She also freelanced for Rupa Publiations, Harper ollins India and Oxford University Press.\n\nSo, you see, her profile is enough to understand that she is an authentic writer for a creative writing guide.\n\nKissing the Demon is a practical, not preachy and helpful creative writing guide, divided in 5 important sections. And, here I am going to tell you the six reasons why this book is a must have for new (even experienced) writers.\n

1. Covers every aspect�necessary for creative writing.

\nBe it the art of storytelling or mechanics of plotting; narration or dialogues; settings or characterization; you name a thing that you want to know about creative writing and editing, it is here!\n

[ttshare]Amrita Kumar says, �Plot isn�t story. A great story can be ruined by a weak plot and a weak story can appear good if plotted well.�[/ttshare]

\nCouldn�t agree more !\n

2. It deals with publishing hurdles and process

\nI have always believed that editors are not writer�s enemies. If they reject a manuscript, there must be some reason. Writers should try to find that reason and work on it.\n\nThis book tells you what editors think and why they are compelled to reject a manuscript (you shouldn�t take the rejection personally). Harsh truths of pitching and publishing process have been told in a straightforward fashion.\n

[ttshare]�I think we need writers who know d diff. between d production of a market commodity and the practice of an art� : Ursula K. Le Guin[/ttshare]

\n

3. It�s an easy and practical read

\nI (usually) don�t read non-fiction for they tend to turn dragged and preachy. Moreover, I find it difficult to finish a non-fiction in a stretch. This book makes an easy read because of its light and straightforward writing style. The chapters are short and make sense. It keeps you hooked.\n

4. Carries recommendations & lovely excerpts of popular books

\nHere�s an excerpt of novel �Beloved� used in this book\n

�Something funny �bout that gal,� Paul D said, mostly to himself.

\n

�Funny how?�

\n

�Acts sick, sounds sick, but she doesn�t look sick. Good skin, bright eyes and strong as a bull.�

\n

�She can hardly walk without holding on to something.�

\n

�That�s what I mean. Can�t walk but I have seen her pick up the rocker with one hand.�

\n

Doesn�t it sound intriguing?

\n\n

5. Has several inspiring quotations

\nIf you are a writer, I�m sure you find writing quotes interesting, don�t you? I do. So, I enjoyed reading some really uplifting and insightful writing quotations.\n\nTo quote a few:\n\n�Adjectives and adverbs are the lazy writer�s technique, a skirting around something that needs to be dealt with head on.�\n\n�An exclamation mark is like laughing at your own joke.�\n\n�As soon as you shut the lid on your insecurity, you will find your words flowing with greater ease.�\n\nIt also carries some great first lines of some great books. �All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.� First line of Anna Karenina intrigued me.\n

6. The last section � ten commandments for the writerly life � my favourite!

\nIt gives you some serious writing advices and writing habits with motivating glimpses of writer�s life.\n\n�You will become way less concerned with what other people think of you when you realize how seldom they do.� � David Foster Wallace.