Why Reading Fiction Makes You A Better Writer (Even If You Hate It)
A case for reading novels to write better
Let’s talk about something I keep seeing in writing communities: the struggle with reading classic literature.
I get it. The pushback usually sounds like this:
“I don’t have time to read novels.”
“Classic literature is boring.”
“I just want to write my own stuff.”
But here’s the uncomfortable truth: avoiding literature is like trying to become a chef without ever tasting great food. You can learn all the techniques, but without experiencing how others use them, you’re limiting your growth.
When I first started developing my writing workflow, I focused only on non-fiction. I thought novels were a “waste of time” when I could be learning practical skills instead. But this approach left a huge gap in my understanding of how to communicate effectively.
The Real Issue
When writers say they don’t read literature, they usually mean one of two things:
“Literary fiction seems pretentious and hard to understand” or “I’m afraid I won’t ‘get it’ or it’ll make me feel incompetent about my own writing.”
I felt both of these fears. But then I noticed something: the best non-fiction writers all seemed to have one thing in common – they read fiction extensively. This wasn’t coincidence.
What Literature Actually Teaches You
Reading literature does three things that no writing course can match.
It shows you how to create genuine feeling in your readers.
It teaches you to notice tiny human details that make writing feel real.
It helps you understand different perspectives in a way that pure information never can.
Think about the last time a piece of writing actually made you feel something. That’s not accident – it’s craft. And you can learn it.
How to Actually Read Literature (Without Dying of Boredom)
Here’s what’s working for me: I start super small. I read 5 pages of fiction before bed. Sometimes I try short stories instead of novels. For more passive readings, I sometimes listen to audiobooks while doing other tasks just to keep my mind engaged with good writing.
Most importantly, I give myself permission to abandon books that don’t grab me.
The key is to read like a writer. I notice what makes me keep reading.
I pay attention to prose that hits me emotionally.
I observe how authors paint mental pictures with their words and reveal certain character traits.
Anything that sticks out goes into my zettelkasten as writing techniques I can study and adapt.
Making It Part of My System
I dedicate a certain section in my zettelkasten where I collect phrases that affect me.
I analyze how authors create emotional impact.
I connect techniques across different books. This transforms reading from passive consumption into active learning.
Your Challenge This Week
Pick any novel that interests you (don’t overthink it).
Read just the first page.
Write down one technique the author used that caught your attention.
Do this for 5 different books.
Remember: Every writer you admire started as a reader. There’s no shortcut around this truth.