The Art of Fiction

Notes on Craft for Young Writers

By John Gardner | Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

About the book

This classic guide, from the renowned novelist and professor, has helped transform generations of aspiring writers into masterful writers—and will continue to do so for many years to come.  
 
John Gardner was almost as famous as a teacher of creative writing as he was for his own works. In this practical, instructive handbook, based on the courses and seminars that he gave, he explains, simply and cogently, the principles and techniques of good writing. Gardner’s lessons, exemplified with detailed excerpts from classic works of literature, sweep across a complete range of topics—from the nature of aesthetics to the shape of a refined sentence. Written with passion, precision, and a deep respect for the art of writing, Gardner’s book serves by turns as a critic, mentor, and friend. Anyone who has ever thought of taking the step from reader to writer should begin here.

Editions of The Art of Fiction

Hardcover
ISBN 9780394504698
Paperback
ISBN 9780679734031
EBook
ISBN 9780307756718
EBook
ISBN 9780307762818

Read an Excerpt

This classic guide, from the renowned novelist and professor, has helped transform generations of aspiring writers into masterful writers—and will continue to do so for many years to come.  
 
John Gardner was almost as famous as a teacher of creative writing as he was for his own works. In this practical, instructive handbook, based on the courses and seminars that he gave, he explains, simply and cogently, the principles and techniques of good writing. Gardner’s lessons, exemplified with detailed excerpts from classic works of literature, sweep across a complete range of topics—from the nature of aesthetics to the shape of a refined sentence. Written with passion, precision, and a deep respect for the art of writing, Gardner’s book serves by turns as a critic, mentor, and friend. Anyone who has ever thought of taking the step from reader to writer should begin here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Art of Fiction about?

This classic guide, from the renowned novelist and professor, has helped transform generations of aspiring writers into masterful writers—and will continue to do so for many years to come.  
 
John Gardner was almost as famous as a teacher of creative writing as he was for his own works. In this practical, instructive handbook, based on the courses and seminars that he gave, he explains, simply and cogently, the principles and techniques of good writing. Gardner’s lessons, exemplified with detailed excerpts from classic works of literature, sweep across a complete range of topics—from the nature of aesthetics to the shape of a refined sentence. Written with passion, precision, and a deep respect for the art of writing, Gardner’s book serves by turns as a critic, mentor, and friend. Anyone who has ever thought of taking the step from reader to writer should begin here.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Art of Fiction?

Language and Linguistics > Language: reference and general > Creative writing and creative writing guides

Where can I read a sample of The Art of Fiction?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780394504698

Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Art of Fiction?

John Gardner

Who is the Publisher of the book The Art of Fiction?

Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

The Art of Fiction is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780394504698) and paperback(ISBN 9780679734031) and ebook(ISBN 9780307756718) and ebook(ISBN 9780307762818)

Where can I buy The Art of Fiction online or support local independent bookshops?

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Where can I buy The Art of Fiction?