On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction

by William Zinsser

Nobody told all the new computer writers that the essence of writing is rewriting. Just because they’re writing fluently doesn’t mean they’re writing well.

I then said that rewriting is the essence of writing. I pointed out that professional writers rewrite their sentences over and over and then rewrite what they have rewritten.

I then said that the professional writer must establish a daily schedule and stick to it.

I said that professional writers are solitary drudges who seldom see other writers.

But the secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest components.

Writers must therefore constantly ask: what am I trying to say? Surprisingly often they don’t know.

Writing is hard work. A clear sentence is no accident.

Examine every word you put on paper. You’ll find a surprising number that don’t serve any purpose.