Ok, so I know that there are a lot of these books out there on Wattpad. The reason I decided to write this book was because I found it hard to find actual guidelines on the internet for this kind of stuff. So I put together what I learned from many...
Hello! This chapter wasn't written by me, this was written by Kristen from Well-Storied, so all credit goes to her. (Her website will be placed in the external link and can be found in the previous chapter.)
If you've been writing for long, you've most likely heard the phrase "kill your darlings."In fact, this phrase has become so ubiquitous that you probably roll your eyes upon reading it.
But, as with many clichés, "kill your darlings" is popular for a reason; it's a tried-and-true editing technique that can help you create the best version of your story. Don't believe me?
Take a look at these popular authors who have touted the phrase after finding it vital to the success of their own work:
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I don't know about you, but if some of writing's greats are using this technique to edit their novels then I definitely want to employ it in my own work.
But what does "kill your darlings" actually mean? And how can you apply it to your writing without going mad? Without any further ado, let's talk about that!
Defining the phrase... The phrase "kill your darlings" advises authors to cut any elements from their novel that don't serve to further the work as a whole, even if those elements are ones that they love. Below, we'll talk in detail about what types of elements are best to slay.
But first, let's discuss why killing your darlings is an important technique that you should employ in your own work. After all, doesn't it seem like removing the things you love most from your novel will make the story less passionate?
Under some circumstances, that might be the case. However, most of the work you do when you kill your darlings will actually enhance your story, helping you to create the best possible version of your novel. If that doesn't impassion you, I don't know what will!
"Kill your darlings" offers three main benefits to your work. It can:
1) Strengthen your characters and plot. 2) Improve the overall quality of your writing. 3) Refine your self-discipline.
