On Writing

Why do authors write? How do they go about it? What is good writing?


In On Writing, Robert McCrum collects together his questions and reflections on the nature of writing from his Observer newspaper column. In them he explores the sometimes tricky relationship between writing and commerce, looks at the state of modern literature, and asks where great writing really comes from – can it be taught, or is it borne out of author experience?


A unique and informed view on writing and how it is affected by the shifting technological world we live in, On Writing is the perfect short read for those who love books, or are looking for a little writing guidance for themselves.


On Writing is the companion volume to Robert McCrum On Authors and On Reading.