Videos for Aspiring Writers
Whether it's writers' block that has decided to be a thorn in your path, or just a lack of motivation, spending these dull moments of absolute monotony watching professionals in the writing world talk about the art of writing can definitely be helpful.
That's why this writer compiled a list of some of the best videos to watch if you're an aspiring writer, or even just one who is having a hard time motivating himself.
THE “MAKE GOOD ART” SPEECH – NEIL GAIMAN
Neil Gaiman's 2012 commencement speech at the University of Arts, when compared in length to the rest, is probably on the shorter end of the spectrum. However, the content is so great, that even at only 20 minutes it can easily be a contender for number one. Gaiman discusses his past career as a journalist, as well as his initial failures as a writer. He gives the students, mainly art majors, advice on making a profession out of their passions. The speech was so popular, that it was eventually made into a book titled “Make Good Art”.
WHEELER CENTRE WITH SIR TERRY PRATCHETT
In contrast to the former video, this conversation with the late great Sir Terry Pratchett clocks in a little over an hour. The mind behind the massively successful Discworld series sits down to discuss a variety of topics. Hearing Sir Pratchett's thoughts on his career as a journalist, the world of fiction, imagination and death all bundle up into one brilliant conversation which will get you itching to start a novel immediately. The Wheeler Centre for books is usually a common host to such events, so definitely check out their channel on YouTube as well.
NEIL GAIMAN IN CONVERSATION WITH AUDREY NIFFENEGGER, THE FISHER CENTER
You might've noticed a tiny bit of bias, on the part of this writer, for Gaiman. However, the highlight of this particular conversation is Audrey Niffenegger, the author behind the novel The Time Traveller's Wife. Both of the authors discuss their own personal histories as writers, as well as a little bit of insight about the publishing industry. Niffenegger's story about her job as a graveyard guide, which she started in order to help research one of her books also showcases the passion writers often have for their particular craft. Gaiman does a great job at keeping the conversation humorous, as well as interesting; while Niffenegger gives more detailed insight into her own fictional universe and its initial inception.
GEORGE R. R. MARTIN AND STEPHEN KING AT ALBUQUERQUE
While the aforementioned writers may not be household names, these two have an entire empire of literature and cult following behind them. King, a writer with so many accolades to his name, that you could write a book about his life and win a prize; and Martin the creator of the Game of Thrones universe. What more needs to be said? The two converse about their childhood, getting published, rejection from publishing houses, comics, etc. Watching these two giants will definitely give you a few ideas on how to up your writing game.
Getting your creative juices flowing isn't always the easiest of tasks. When you're a musician or an artist, you find inspiration in songs and paintings. But as a writer, reading a book isn't always a quick fire way to get motivated. So give the aforementioned videos a watch, and get your pens, keyboards, quills or whatever it is you use, ready for a round of intensive writing afterwards.
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