A Nobel Laureate’s Writing Advice Provides Life Lessons to All
William Faulkner’s suggestion to writers is one to consider in every-day life
Photo by Bruce Christianson on Unsplash
As a writer, I was reflecting on William Faulkner’s quote about what a writer needs. I realized, however, that his words are lessons I want to carry with me every day. So, non-writers, writers, everyone … let’s take a closer look:
“A writer needs three things, experience, observation, and imagination, any two of which, at times any one of which, can supply the lack of the others” — William Faulkner
In a time when so many of us receive our news and information from TED Talks, social media and instant news, it is notable that advice from decades past is just as relevant today as ever. Faulkner, who was born in 1897, shared so many works and so many bits of wisdom. More than 125 years after his birth, his advice to writers is not only still relevant — it is a great framework for living.
One of the three things Faulkner says a writer needs is experience. Isn’t that something we all need in order to be empathetic beings? For me, this is everything. What happens in my life is what enables me to relate to others. It is why I cry, for example, every time I see any father walk his daughter down the aisle. My experiences as a daughter and as a parent enable me to feel all of the emotions that are colliding in those moments.
In addition to being able to feel more deeply when tapping into our own experiences, we are also able to be a better friend, family member, worker and overall communicator. Our past and current conflicts, struggles, hopes, dreams and fears are often relatable and are what make us human. These are the stories that our friends want — the stories about moments in which we were vulnerable, real and raw.
According to an article in Psychology Today, Faulkner was “an introverted, independent outsider.” These traits are those of a keen observer, the second trait that Faulkner suggests writers need to embrace. Again, as non-writers, too, we must pay attention to what is happening around us.
What makes people laugh, cry, love, feel, rage, celebrate? Keep your eyes, your heart and your mind open so you can relate to others and connect on a deeper level. Instinctually, many of us want to talk and offer advice when someone shares what they are experiencing. We often jump to relate with our own story. Instead, observe. Be a great listener and absorb their words with true understanding.
3. Imagination
The third component Faulkner says we need is an imagination. Tapping into that stream of consciousness is something that Faulkner has been known for doing, particularly demonstrated in his book The Sound and the Fury.
Our own imaginations are boundless. There are so many thoughts in there, so much creativity brewing, so many ideas darting back and forth. Dig deep to find and release them. Don’t be afraid to share eclectic thoughts. These are the conversations that are the most interesting ones — the times when someone shares their individual perspectives, their wild dreams, their lofty goals.
Don’t just follow a formula for easy conversation. Instead, take risks when connecting with others. Use your own imaginative thoughts. Share your own outlandish, creative stories. Also, when alone, make room to set your imagination free. Put down your phone and turn off your TV and just dream. We often don’t spend enough time sitting with our own thoughts, and when we do, those thoughts are often corralled. Let them run wild.
Faulkner’s quote also stated that if someone is lacking in experience, observation or imagination that one of these alone could suffice. So, aim high with confidence knowing you only have to succeed at two or even one of these suggestions (even though the goal should be all three).
Process and share your experiences. Be a great observer who talks less and listens more. Exercise your imagination and let it fill your mind and the minds of others with creativity, inspiration and entertainment. If you fall short and just succeed at one of these, it will very likely be enough to “supply the lack of the others” and will still enable you to be a more empathetic, connected, interesting being.