How many writers can move between writing disciplines, can all of them?

[Ann]

I love writing novels. But I've been asked to write a script a couple of times in the past. But it's not something I've studied. My focus has always been novel writing.

I was worried it would suck.

My question is, can all writer's move between different writing disciplines as smoothly as some think they can? Or are we all specialised to one type?

[G.R.]

Honesty, I would say that depends on the person. Like you, I'm a lover of novel writing. Although I do write poetry as well, both required some discipline and a lot of practice as you know that never ends. I would cringe if I were suddenly asked to write a short story or a script or non-fiction, especially if I'm not interested in doing so. But again I think it's just a matter of practice and discipline. With anything the more you do it....


So I do understand where you are coming from. I would have the same worry.

Can all writers move between different writing disciplines. IMO, I would say yes, but to what extent and hair pulling and insanity would one want to go through? Some would struggle (like me no doubt) and yet other can move from one discipline to another effortlessly.

[Keith]

They are all different skills in the same discipline. Think of it like doctors. Some doctors are ear, nose, and throat specialists. Some are allergists. They have the same basic skills, but the specialists learn the specifics of a particular system.

The important thing, I think, is to be open to learning what's different about the forms. Screenwriting definitely requires a different approach to story than novel writing. Screenwriting is about the visual. Screenwriting is about collaboration, because no one makes a movie on their own. You always leave opportunities for people like the director to include their vision.

Heck, I'm a technical writer at work, which is yet another set of skills and approach, and I'm still learning how to do that, some days.

There are lots of good sources for learning about screenwriting. Right now, I'm kind of obsessed with the Q&A podcast, which is chock full of interviews with the writers of your favorite movies. I loved the interview with the writer of "Inside Out"!

Hope that's helpful. One of the most important things, I think, about being an artist is there is always room to be learning and improving your craft and skillset.

[Julie]

Great post. I started with short stories, graduated to poetry, then wrote six novels and am now trying my hand at plays ( and a pantomime!) There is a lot to learn when you change disciplines and I know I'm making mistakes but I ran out of ideas for books and this is really fun.