10 quotes about storytelling from classic authors that will inspire you

Inspiration day for writers and storytellers…

Here are 10 timeless quotes from (mostly) classic authors to inspire you and spark your creativity.

+ 5 bonus quotes at the end…

Quote 1

“The only true paradise is a garden.” – Virginia Woolf.

(This is a metaphor for crafting a world filled with lush details and vibrant characters.)

Quote 2

“Begin with an idea that excites you so much that it keeps you up at night.” – Stephen King.

(That’s why some writers and public speakers are so prolific, while most are bland and unremarkable)

Quote 3

“The best stories are the ones that make you feel something.” – Ernest Hemingway.

(You must be the first to feel something strong from your own stories. If you do, many in your audience will feel the same)

Quote 4

“A writer is someone who has learned to turn his failures into stories.” – Joan Didion.

(Your life experiences will permeate your stories. Be aware of that and use it to craft deeper narratives)

Quote 5

“The only way to learn to write is to write.” – Ray Bradbury.

(Practice is the only way to improve your skills. It’s also the only way to gain clarity and precision)

Quote 6

“The greatest stories are the ones that make you forget you’re reading.” – Jane Austen.

(The more immersive the experience you create, the more remarkable and effective it will be)

Quote 7

“A good story is one that leaves you thinking.” – William Faulkner.

(This is the big difference between modern woke stories, that only preach and impose ideas, and classic stories that make you think)

Quote 8

“The best stories are the ones that feel like they’re happening to you.” – Gabriel García Márquez.

(Again with the immersion… it must be that powerful!)

Quote 9

Begin at the beginning, and go on till you come to the end. Then stop.” – Lewis Carroll

(And yet so many authors make the mistake of ignoring this simple advice…)

Quote 10
“The best stories are the ones that tell themselves.” – Kurt Vonnegut
(well, this is a challenging one. And yet, once you get into storytelling, it becomes so obvious…)

5 Bonus Quotes

Few weeks ago I shared other amazing quotes. You can find them here: https://x.com/Henry_th_Mighty/status/1813632012986847485

Check them out and tell me which one resonate with you the most.

September 8, 2024