I don't want to be influenced

Many blogs give writing advice and virtually all them say that if you want to write books you should read a lot of books. I know you can learn from reading other people’s books, but I’m not so sure it’s great advice. Why? Because I don’t want to be influenced by another author’s style or get ideas from his or her stories.

It reminds me of when I was into composing and playing music. A friend told me that if I want to be in a band and write my own music, than I should go to music concerts and listen to other bands. I didn’t believe that. I don’t want to go listen to other bands. I don’t want to be influenced by other people’s music. I want my own music to be original and not a version of someone else’s.

Same thing for my books. Yes, I have talked about how much I appreciate Robert E. Howard. But I read his books over twenty years ago. I do intend to go back and read his work again, but I am not going to do it while I’m right in the middle of writing my own novels. I don’t want to be a Robert E. Howard wannabe, nor do I want my work to be compared to his.

Yet if I were asked what writer might have influenced my writing more than anyone else, I would have to say Robert E. Howard. But that's because I include tension and conflict, and in KILLER OF KILLERS, tons of action. But I wouldn't say I write like him, because no one writes like Robert E. Howard.

Still, I am convinced my writing will hold up to the scrutiny of critics. I’m sure I will get my share of bashing, as it’s been pointed out that any work of art will have those who love it and those who hate it. And I don’t care about anyone who trashes my work. There will always be haters. But I know it’s going to be appreciated, too.