The writing of fiction

Name: The writing of fiction
Author: Edith Wharton

By Edith Wharton

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Essays, Letters & Speeches How To ...

About This Book

A series of essays examines principles and techniques of writing fiction, arguing that careful selection and narrative economy are fundamental. The author traces the novel’s evolution toward inward focus and realism, contrasts methods used in short stories and novels, and offers practical advice on plot, point of view, and constructing character and situation. Literary examples are used to show how social and material conditions inform personality and action, while considerations of psychological detail and structural choice guide effective storytelling. A final essay analyzes Marcel Proust’s approach as a case study in narrative method and inward observation.

About the Author

Edith Wharton

Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer, known for her keen observations of the American upper class and her exploration of social mores. Her most celebrated work, "The Age of Innocence," won the Pulitzer Prize in 1921 and reflects her critical perspective on the constraints of society. Wharton's literary contributions extend to various genres, including novels, poetry, and travel writing, with notable titles such as "Ethan Frome" and "A Motor-Flight Through France." Throughout her career, she adeptly navigated themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships, establishing her as a significant figure in American literature.