If You Can Talk You Can Write

by Joel Saltzman

Reminiscent of offbeat writing guides like Writing Down the Bones and Writing in a Convertible with the Top Down, here is a straightforward guide to writing based on a highly successful UCLA Writer's Program given by the author.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0446395072
• ISBN13: 9780446395076
• Release Date: October 1993
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
• Length: 190 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.3" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Best writing book I've ever read

This is the book that got me really started writing. The principle is simple enough: if you really want to write something, you have to go ahead and start writing it, and keep on writing even though it's nowhere close to perfect. What keeps most people from writing is thinking that it has to be perfect the first time around. Saltzman says "writer's block" is really "perfectionist's block". This may sound like a simple concept, but the way Saltzman presents it is really unique; it's a real kick in the rear. And if you have any doubts as to the effectiveness of his writing method, just read even one chapter of the book. It's _thoroughly_ entertaining all the way through - and very informative. I never thought a book on writing would strike me as a "page-turner", but . . . this one is.

Joel Saltzman, a procrastinating writer's best friend!

One of my literati friends gave this to me for my birthday last year as a joke since I always talk about writing more but I always manage to procrastinate. Joel Saltzman's "If You Can Talk You Can Write" was both funny and insightful and helped me kick some of my bad writing habits (being too much of a perfectionist during early drafts, beating writer's block, revising). After I read it I sat down the next day and followed Joel's advice: write about whatever, as long as I was writing again. This is like writer therapy (or rehabiliation). It got me off my chesterfield and back at the keyboard. This is a great tool for student writers and university writing courses. If I ever decide to teach creative writing, this book will definitely be on my required reading list. Too many writers burn out from many of the topics Joel discusses, such as being too critical, too much of a perfectionist, or labouring away trying to imitate the style of the classic writers instead of finiding your own unique voice.

You want to write but think you can't? Then read this book.

This is a motivating book for anyone who's heart leads them to writing - professionally or as a personal challenge - yet they are confronted by either their own negative internal voices or by their critical, so called friends. Along with inspirational quotes from famous writers, the book guides you with achievable steps to help you overcome your fears of writing, procrastination, writer's block, waiting for inspiration etc. An easy to read and follow book, because the author "Joel Saltzman" intended it that way. His philosophy for writing is simple: he says "if you can talk, you can write." And he's write. (pun intended).

Wonderfully witty and wise

Saltzman's book can be considered a new writer's bible. He offers practical advice and lots of encouragement with plenty of humor, compassion,and wisdom. The writers' quotes along with concise and relevent instruction and anecdotes makes this book easy to read. If you aren't inspired to start writing after reading this book, you were never meant to be a writer.

A book that will inspire most laypersons the boost to write!

I found the book was informative and inspiring. It answered many questions and doubts I had about writing. It made me feel confident I was a good candidate. I have loaned the book to others and they have been similarly interested in trying to start writing their own books. It provided me with the support and confidence boost I needed to take that step of faith and try something new. I have developed several ideas for books from the thought provoking questions this book uses to develop your creative instinct.I can use the ocasional reminder of what or how I should do something as a rookie writer. I am presently working on a suspense novel based on my visits to Russia, another series of books on family security concerns, and editing my loss prevention manual. Thanks Mr. Saltzman!