I've published fifteen short, philosophically-themed science fiction stories in pro and semi-pro magazines, including in some of the most prestigious venues.
Indeed, writing fiction is a very different process from writing academic papers. I think fiction is in many ways harder because there are no rules, ultimately, other than the ones dictated by the story, and that's something that can only emerge as you're writing it. It's a messy process. The takeaway advice here—learn to let go—is good for anyone starting out writing fiction. The first draft of my novel was well over 600 pages. I cut that down to nearly half when I re-wrote it in omniscient. I have many short stories hanging out in my computer that will never see the light of day. That's the way it goes! Writing fiction is a skill you have to learn through experience.
100%! And unlike academic papers, the reader has no obligation to read it. Somehow they must be inspired to choose it over the 10,000 other things they could watch, read, or do.
Indeed, writing fiction is a very different process from writing academic papers. I think fiction is in many ways harder because there are no rules, ultimately, other than the ones dictated by the story, and that's something that can only emerge as you're writing it. It's a messy process. The takeaway advice here—learn to let go—is good for anyone starting out writing fiction. The first draft of my novel was well over 600 pages. I cut that down to nearly half when I re-wrote it in omniscient. I have many short stories hanging out in my computer that will never see the light of day. That's the way it goes! Writing fiction is a skill you have to learn through experience.
100%! And unlike academic papers, the reader has no obligation to read it. Somehow they must be inspired to choose it over the 10,000 other things they could watch, read, or do.
"And unlike academic papers, the reader has no obligation to read it"—Ha! So very true.
This strikes me as excellent advice for anyone wanting to write fiction, not just academics. Thanks for posting it!