Ernest Hemingway's Favorite Writing Exercise

Summary

In 1934, aspiring writer Arnold Samuelson sought mentorship from Ernest Hemingway, who imparted valuable writing advice. Hemingway's three-step exercise focused on detailed observation, empathy, and relentless practice to enhance descriptive writing. This method emphasized 'show, don't tell' and the importance of vivid descriptions to emotionally connect with readers, ultimately shaping the writer's craft.

Takeaways

• 📚 Arnold Samuelson sought mentorship from Ernest Hemingway to improve his writing skills.
• 🚪 Samuelson's persistence led to a rare opportunity to learn from Hemingway directly at his home.
• 📝 Hemingway provided Samuelson with writing exercises to enhance observational skills and 'show, don't tell' technique.
• 🎣 The first exercise involved closely observing a situation, such as fishing, and describing it vividly to evoke emotions in the reader.
• 👀 The second exercise was about practicing empathy by understanding and reflecting the emotions and reactions of others.
• 📖 Hemingway emphasized the importance of not judging but understanding different perspectives in writing.
• 🔄 The third step was to repeat the first two exercises to practice and refine the ability to write descriptively.
• 👂 Hemingway advised to listen and observe completely to capture the essence of experiences and emotions.
• 📚 Reading 'The Old Man and the Sea' exemplified Hemingway's use of vivid descriptions to immerse readers in the story.
• 🤔 Practicing empathy allows writers to consider the feelings and motivations of their subjects, enhancing non-fiction writing.
• 🌟 Hemingway believed that great writing should feel truer than reality and belong to the reader after they finish the book.
• 👨‍🏫 Although Samuelson did not pursue a writing career, his memoir and Hemingway's advice serve as valuable lessons for aspiring writers.

Q & A

Who is Arnold Samuelson and why did he travel to Florida in 1934?

Arnold Samuelson was an aspiring writer from Minnesota who hitchhiked to Florida in 1934 to meet his favorite author, Ernest Hemingway, seeking mentorship to improve his writing skills.

What was Hemingway's initial impression of Samuelson's writing?

Although Hemingway was not particularly impressed by the quality of Samuelson's writing, he was impressed by the young man's seriousness and dedication to his craft.

What opportunity did Hemingway provide for Samuelson?

Hemingway invited Samuelson to join the crew on his boat, the Pilar, which allowed Samuelson the rare opportunity to learn from Hemingway about writing while at sea.

What was the title of the article Hemingway wrote sharing advice he gave to Samuelson?

Hemingway shared the advice he gave to Samuelson in a 1935 article titled 'Monologue to the Maestro'.

What is the 'five finger exercise' Hemingway suggested to Samuelson for improving his writing?

The 'five finger exercise' is a three-step writing exercise that Hemingway suggested to help Samuelson sharpen his observational skills and vividly describe experiences on paper.

What is the first step of Hemingway's 'five finger exercise'?

The first step involves picking a situation to observe closely and then retelling it in words, paying close attention to details and emotions experienced.

How does Hemingway's advice on writing emphasize the importance of 'show, don't tell'?

Hemingway's advice encourages writers to be specific and descriptive, showing the reader the exact actions and emotions that led to a particular feeling, rather than just stating it.

What role does empathy play in Hemingway's advice for writers?

Empathy is crucial as it allows writers to understand and be sensitive to the feelings of others, enabling them to see the world through another person's eyes and enrich their storytelling.

What is the significance of practicing empathy in writing non-fiction?

Practicing empathy in non-fiction allows writers to think more deeply about their subjects, consider different opinions, and respond to them in a way that engages and entertains readers.

What does Hemingway suggest as the key to mastering the ability to describe something vividly?

Hemingway suggests that the key to mastering vivid description is practice, including listening completely to people, observing details, and thinking about the feelings these observations evoke.

What was the outcome of Samuelson's experience with Hemingway?

Although Samuelson's writing improved and he had good stories to tell, he did not pursue a writing career. His memoir about the year he spent at sea was published posthumously.

What lesson can writers take away from Hemingway's advice and Samuelson's experience?

Writers can learn the importance of continuous practice, developing empathy, and the value of vivid descriptions to emotionally connect with readers, as well as the idea that no one ever becomes a master in the craft of writing.