On Writing
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On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft (2000) is non-fiction by Stephen King.
Stephen King's 'On Writing' is, as the title suggests, a book about the prolific author's experience as a writer. Although he discusses several of his books, one doesn't need to have read them or even be familiar with them to enjoy 'On Writing.'
The first section of the book is best described as an autobiography. It centers on his early exposure to the world of fiction and his childhood attempts at writing. He describes his early attempts to get published, his breakthrough success with the novel Carrie, and his subsequent development as a tremendously popular author. King also discusses his problems with drugs and alcohol and how they adversely affected his career.
The second section is practical advice on writing, from tips on grammar to ideas about developing plot and character. King describes it as a guide for how “a competent writer can become a good one.”
The third (much shorter) section is once again autobiographical; it deals with the events that happened in 1999 after King was struck by a vehicle while walking down an isolated country road. King describes his brush with death, his painful recovery and his struggle to start writing again.