Back in the day, reading was pure vibes: all done in the name of pleasure and leisure. I was 100% that little girl who had a stack of books at her bedside, reading by flashlight after lights out (definitely why I was so near-sighted 🤓).

Now, as someone who takes writing more seriously, I read more critically too. Still pleasurable, but in a different, more obsessive way, perhaps like an apprentice watchmaker taking an old Rolex apart.

When I get stuck with writing, I bring that problem to whatever I’m reading. I study how another author does it. Currently, I’m fixated on weaving flashbacks + timelines. I’ve been attuning my eyes to study the exact words that lead readers in and out of memories and even what verb tenses are used.

After, I always emerge with new tricks to try out. The same idea applies in the opposite direction: reading things I don’t like so I know to avoid certain mechanics. Reading takes longer, but the extra energy spent is an investment into The Craft 🤌🏼.

Q: What do you notice about how you read as a writer?

Happy writing this week,
Jamie

📝 This week’s writing prompt: Reading as a writer

Reply to this email to submit your writing. Submit by Saturday evening and see what everyone else wrote for the same prompt.

Last week’s submissions: Brute forcing it

Did you submit last week? If so, click to view the other submissions 👀 

✨ Writing inspo of the week

Enjoying Creative Juice? Please share with a friend.