'Easy reading is damn hard writing' - Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American novelist and short story writer, once said, “Easy reading is damn hard writing.” This quote has become a popular mantra for writers and readers alike. It embodies the idea that writing something that is easy and enjoyable to read takes a lot of effort and skill on the part of the author.

At first glance, the quote may seem counterintuitive. After all, shouldn’t easy reading be, well, easy to write? However, when we think about the books and stories that we consider “easy” to read, it becomes clear that there is a lot of thought and precision that goes into crafting them.

One aspect of easy reading is its accessibility. When we read something that flows well and does not require a lot of effort to understand or follow, we are more likely to enjoy it. But achieving this accessibility requires careful attention to elements such as sentence structure, pacing, and tone.

Another aspect of easy reading is its ability to engage us emotionally. Whether we are reading a thrilling mystery or a heartwarming romance, we want to feel invested in the characters and their stories. Achieving this emotional resonance requires strong characterization, realistic dialogue, and a deep understanding of human nature.

Of course, none of these elements are easy to master. They require a great deal of effort, practice, and creativity on the part of the writer. Hawthorne’s quote reminds us that the writing process is not simply a matter of putting words on a page. It requires careful thought and attention to detail in order to create something that is not only well-written but also enjoyable to read.

In addition, the quote highlights the often-overlooked fact that writing is hard work. It can be a frustrating, time-consuming, and even painful process at times. But Hawthorne’s words encourage us to persevere and strive for excellence, even when the task seems daunting.

Ultimately, “Easy reading is damn hard writing” is a reminder that good writing requires a great deal of effort and skill. It is also a celebration of the power of language to connect us to the world and to each other. When we read something that is easy and enjoyable, we are reminded of the beauty and power of the written word.

Who is “Nathaniel Hawthorne”?

Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864) was an American novelist and short story writer. He is best known for his novel “The Scarlet Letter,” which explores themes of sin, guilt, and redemption in Puritan New England. Hawthorne’s other notable works include “The House of the Seven Gables,” “The Blithedale Romance,” and “Young Goodman Brown.” He is considered one of the most important writers of American literature in the 19th century.

Are there any books about “Nathaniel Hawthorne”?

Yes, there are many books about Nathaniel Hawthorne. Some popular ones include:

1. Nathaniel Hawthorne: A Life by Brenda Wineapple
2. Hawthorne: A Critical Biography by Hyatt H. Waggoner
3. Hawthorne: A Life by Mellow Richard
4. Nathaniel Hawthorne: An Introduction and Interpretation by Norman Holmes Pearson
5. Hawthorne: A Study in Solitude by Richard Brodhead
6. The Salem World of Nathaniel Hawthorne by Margaret B. Moore
7. A Political Companion to Nathaniel Hawthorne edited by John L. Idol Jr. and Melinda M. Ponder
8. Nathaniel Hawthorne: A Literary Life by Leland S. Person
9. Hawthorne’s Fiction: The Light and the Dark by Richard Harter Fogle
10. Hawthorne and Women: Engendering and Expanding the Hawthorne Tradition edited by John L. Idol Jr. and Melinda M. Ponder.

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