How to Write Exceptionally Well — Mitch Albom

Name: How to Write Exceptionally Well — Mitch Albom
Uploaded: 2025-10-08T11:00:44.000Z
Duration: 3 h 14 min 54 s

Mitch Albom on Storytelling and Craft

The Ubiquity of Mitch Albom's Work

Mitch Albom is a prominent author known for his bestselling books, including The Five People You Meet in Heaven and Tuesdays with Morrie, which was once the bestselling memoir of all time.

He has written 14 books and sold over 40 million copies throughout his 45-year writing career.

Serving the Story

Albom emphasizes the importance of "serving the story" as a primary focus in writing, regardless of genre—be it fiction, non-fiction, or journalism.

Writers should identify a central idea to convey and remain tethered to it throughout their narrative to avoid losing direction.

Tethering to Themes

He likens maintaining focus on the story's theme to being tethered by a cord in space; deviations are acceptable as long as one remains connected to the core idea.

In journalism, he suggests that aligning the first and last paragraphs helps maintain this focus. For novels, knowing the ending beforehand can guide the writing process.

Engaging Readers Quickly

Albom notes that readers have little patience; thus, capturing their attention quickly is crucial. Losing them means they may not return.

His background in television taught him how vital it is to hook an audience swiftly during storytelling.

Learning from Family Dynamics

His storytelling skills were honed at family gatherings where he observed differences between how his aunts focused on details versus how his uncles told engaging war stories.

This experience helped him understand pacing and engagement—knowing when to keep attention or bring back interest when listeners start fading.

Storytelling Techniques with Children

Working with children has refined his ability to hold attention; he recognizes cues indicating when kids lose interest and adapts accordingly.

He reflects on advice about pacing: telling slow parts fast and fast parts slow enhances storytelling effectiveness.

Understanding the Writing Process

The Challenge of Lengthy Explanations

The speaker expresses a dislike for lengthy, detailed explanations in books, likening them to Tom Clancy's extensive descriptions of submarine mechanics.

They emphasize the importance of avoiding slow parts in writing, suggesting that some sections should be cut entirely to maintain reader engagement.

Evolution as a Writer

The speaker reflects on their early struggles with criticism regarding sentence length and clarity from editors and teachers.

In response to past critiques, they have shifted towards writing shorter books, often around 200-230 pages, as compensation for previously being too verbose.

Theme-Centric Storytelling

When developing a book, the speaker prioritizes selecting a theme before constructing the story or characters.

For their latest book "Twice," the central theme revolves around the idea that "the grass is always greener" in love and life choices.

Exploring Universal Themes

The speaker discusses how readers often misinterpret their motivations behind writing certain books; for example, "The Five People You Meet in Heaven" was not primarily about heaven but rather about individual significance.

They assert that everyone matters and influence others' lives without realizing it—a universal theme they aim to convey through storytelling.

Consequences of Choices

In "Twice," the protagonist has a magical ability to redo life events but must face consequences from these second chances.

A critical lesson emerges: failing to learn from mistakes can lead to greater costs than making those mistakes initially. This highlights the importance of appreciating one's current circumstances rather than constantly seeking alternatives.

What Makes a Good Premise?

Exploring the Concept of a Good Premise

The discussion begins with thoughts on intriguing premises, referencing works like Flatland and Benjamin Button, highlighting the importance of premise in storytelling.

The speaker expresses that their goal is not to be recognized as an artist but rather to provoke thought in readers, aiming for them to reflect on their own lives after reading.

Impact of Literature on Life

The speaker shares personal experiences from writing Tuesdays with Morrie, which was initially intended just to cover medical bills but ended up resonating deeply with readers.

Readers have shared transformative experiences influenced by the book, such as reconnecting with loved ones or changing life paths due to its themes.

Writing Style and Emotional Depth

The author reflects on how literature can inspire change and emphasizes the fulfillment derived from writing impactful stories that encourage self-reflection.

They aim for each book to evoke thought similar to Tuesdays with Morrie, focusing on whether readers will contemplate its themes post-reading.

Approach to Writing Emotionally Charged Topics

Contrary to expectations, the author chose a simpler approach when writing about heavy topics like death and grief, avoiding excessive emotional weight.

This decision stemmed from a lack of confidence in matching the emotional depth found in other literary works about death.

Simplicity Over Complexity in Storytelling

The author recounts their initial struggles while preparing for Tuesdays with Morrie, realizing they were not yet equipped emotionally or skill-wise for flowery prose about death.

They opted for straightforward storytelling, allowing characters' voices and experiences to carry the narrative without unnecessary embellishments.

Publishing Journey and Book Length Decisions

A humorous anecdote reveals that despite aiming for 320 pages, the final manuscript was much shorter due to concise writing; this led publishers to decide on a smaller book format.

The unexpected success of Tuesdays with Morrie established a new standard for future books regarding length and style, emphasizing simplicity.

Joan Didion's Writing Style and Personal Editing Process

The Influence of Joan Didion

Acknowledgment of Joan Didion's impactful writing style, described as "writing so tightly it cuts the flesh," which inspired the speaker to adopt a more concise approach in their own writing.

First Drafts and Self-Editing

The speaker reflects on their first drafts, indicating that they often require significant editing and revision, leading to a rigorous self-editing process.

The Importance of Opening Pages

Discussion about the pressure to perfect the opening pages of a book; the speaker initially believed that capturing readers' attention within the first page was crucial for engagement.

Advice from an Editor

An editor advised that readers are willing to invest time beyond just the first paragraph when picking up a book, alleviating some pressure on creating a perfect opening.

Continuous Self-Editing

The speaker emphasizes their habit of constant self-editing throughout the writing process, often being able to recite their work due to extensive revisions before submitting it for external review.

Writing Under Pressure: The Art of Meeting Deadlines

The Chaos of Last-Minute Writing

The speaker describes the frantic experience of writing under pressure, capturing a moment where they had to quickly send off a piece amidst chaos as fans stormed the court.

They express concern about the quality of their rushed writing, humorously noting that it might be used for promotional materials that could lead to criticism from young readers.

Embracing Deadlines in Writing

The speaker reflects on their comfort with deadlines, contrasting their punctuality with the common stereotype of novelists being late with submissions.

They attribute this discipline to their journalism background, emphasizing the necessity of daily writing regardless of inspiration or interest.

Daily Writing Routine and Discipline

The speaker mentions being part of a group called Rock Bottom Remainders, consisting of various writers who share insights but primarily focus on music rather than writing discussions.

They note that most writers treat their craft like a job, highlighting the importance of routine over sporadic bursts of creativity.

Understanding Personal Limits and Productivity

Acknowledging personal limits, the speaker shares that they can write effectively for about three hours each day and have developed strategies to maximize productivity during this time.

They emphasize starting each session without distractions—no music or internet—to maintain clarity and focus on their creative process.

Techniques for Maintaining Momentum

To keep motivation high, they suggest stopping work at a productive point rather than when feeling stuck. This technique helps foster excitement for returning to writing.

By leaving off in the middle of an engaging sentence or paragraph, writers can look forward to continuing their work instead of dreading it.

Unique Perspectives in Journalism

Reflecting on storytelling techniques in journalism, the speaker recalls an interview discussing how unique angles can create memorable narratives.

They reference journalist Jimmy Breslin's approach during JFK's assassination coverage as an example; focusing on less conventional perspectives often yields more impactful stories.

The Art of Perspective in Sports Journalism

Unique Perspectives on Grief and National Sentiment

The speaker recounts a visit to a cemetery where a meticulous grave digger for John F. Kennedy illustrates the importance of small details, emphasizing how this perspective captures national grief.

This unique viewpoint allows for a deeper understanding of collective emotions, contrasting with traditional narratives surrounding Kennedy's death.

Personal Reflections on Sports Journalism

The speaker shares an embarrassing moment from freshman year in college related to sports journalism, highlighting the learning curve in understanding professional norms.

A realization about the "no cheering" rule in press boxes reflects broader attitudes within sports journalism that discourage emotional investment.

Embracing Enthusiasm in Reporting

The discussion shifts to counterpositioning, where recent trends show journalists embracing their fandom and enthusiasm rather than adhering strictly to neutrality.

The original intent behind the "no cheering" rule is critiqued as it has evolved into an attitude that may stifle genuine passion for sports.

Valuing the Journalist's Role

The speaker emphasizes gratitude for being part of the sports world, recognizing that many aspire to be in such positions despite challenges faced by journalists.

Anecdotes about experiences like champagne celebrations illustrate both the highs and lows of being a sports journalist while maintaining appreciation for these moments.

Passion vs. Cynicism in Sports Coverage

The notion that dispassionate reporting is essential is challenged; instead, passion should be integral to sports journalism as it reflects what makes games meaningful.

Acknowledging local pride and excitement fosters a more engaging narrative, particularly when covering teams from cities like Detroit known for their passionate fanbase.

Celebrating Local Teams and Community Spirit

The speaker notes how Detroit’s culture differs from other cities regarding sports coverage; local journalists often celebrate rather than criticize teams.

Reflecting on Detroit's struggles highlights how sports can provide joy and community pride during tough times, reinforcing the role of journalists as cheerleaders for their teams.

Character Development in Storytelling

The Importance of Character Transformation

The main character must undergo a transformation for the story to be engaging; there should be a clear difference between their beginning and end states.

In "The Five People You Meet in Heaven," the protagonist is an 83-year-old maintenance worker who believes he has lived a meaningless life until he dies trying to save a girl, leading him to meet five significant people in heaven.

The initial chapters focus on establishing the character's loneliness and sadness through small, poignant moments that set the tone for his journey.

The author emphasizes that characters must change throughout the narrative; otherwise, readers may find it repetitive and uninteresting if they remain static from start to finish.

Approaches to Character Arcs

In his new book "Twice," the protagonist starts older and already facing consequences (arrested for cheating at roulette), showcasing another method of revealing character development through flashbacks or reflections.

Different storytelling techniques can be employed: starting with a transformed character and exploring how they got there or following an innocent character’s growth over time, as seen in "Frankie Presto."

Writing for Readers vs. Personal Interests

The author primarily writes for readers (98% of the time), focusing on themes that resonate with them rather than solely personal interests or passions.

While passionate about doo-wop music, he refrains from writing about it because he struggles to see how it would engage a broader audience effectively.

He seeks themes that allow exploration of universal human experiences, ensuring they align with both his knowledge and curiosity.

Understanding the Writing Process

The Importance of Audience in Writing

The speaker emphasizes that writing should resonate with readers, not just reflect personal interests.

Acknowledges the business aspect of writing; authors must consider their audience to succeed.

References a humorous line from "Tootsie" about writing plays for no audience, highlighting the impracticality of such an approach in a career.

Generating Book Ideas

Discusses the process of capturing book ideas through emails rather than traditional notes to avoid losing them.

Maintains a file filled with various concepts, themes, and potential titles for future reference when starting new projects.

Shares confidence in avoiding writer's block due to a rich collection of ideas accumulated over time.

Storytelling Techniques

Relates an anecdote about sports writer Dick Young during Don Larson's Perfect Game, illustrating the pressure of deadlines on creativity.

Highlights how framing information differently can enhance storytelling; using relatable language makes statistics more engaging.

Writing for Diverse Audiences

Expresses a desire to write for both diehard fans and casual readers who may not be familiar with specific teams or games.

Stresses the importance of identifying universal themes like humanity and resilience that resonate across different audiences.

Balancing Facts and Themes

Advises against getting lost in statistics; instead, focus on thematic elements that everyone can relate to.

Shares an example from covering Carl Lewis at the Olympics, emphasizing preparation and understanding audience expectations.

Derek Redmond's Inspiring Olympic Moment

The Build-Up to the Race

The narrator describes arriving at the event early and waiting for hours while various heats are run, including a 400-meter heat.

During one of the races, a runner pulls up with a hamstring injury, falling on the track and struggling to continue.

A Father's Unwavering Support

A heavyset man runs onto the track to assist his injured son, demonstrating an act of love and support that was possible due to less stringent security measures pre-9/11.

The father helps his son walk around the track, ensuring they stay within the lane to avoid disqualification. The crowd begins cheering as they approach the finish line.

Emotional Climax of the Race

Despite finishing far behind other competitors (around two and a half minutes), both father and son receive a standing ovation from the audience.

Afterward, reporters rush to interview the father, who reveals he is Derek Redmond's dad. He explains his motivation for helping his son finish.

Reflections on Fatherhood and Perseverance

The father shares how he taught Derek to run by placing his feet on top of his own when he was young, emphasizing their bond through this unique method.

This heartfelt moment resonates deeply with everyone present; it symbolizes every father's desire to protect their child from heartbreak.

Impactful Storytelling in Journalism

The narrator decides not to write about another athlete but instead focuses on Derek’s story because it embodies universal themes of love and perseverance.

Although initially unknown in America, Derek's story becomes relatable due to its emotional depth—highlighting familial bonds that transcend sports.

Crafting Engaging Narratives

When writing stories, pacing is crucial; balancing action with moments of reflection can enhance reader engagement.

An example from a book about Holocaust experiences illustrates how inserting lighter scenes can provide relief amidst heavy themes without losing impact.

The Art of Storytelling and Pacing

The Importance of Timing in Storytelling

A character's act of painting a tower symbolizes the lengths one will go to for forgiveness, illustrating a poignant moment that enhances the narrative.

The placement of emotional moments is crucial; inserting them at the right time can provide necessary pauses for readers, preventing overwhelming experiences.

Effective storytelling requires monitoring reader engagement; pacing should be adjusted to maintain a healthy rhythm rather than inducing anxiety.

Building Crescendo and Reader Expectations

Writers must balance story peaks; avoiding early climaxes ensures that significant events are saved for impactful moments later in the narrative.

Drawing from film techniques, particularly Bill Goldman's insights on movie pacing, highlights how action often intensifies towards the end while maintaining viewer acceptance.

Managing Reader Engagement Through Structure

Understanding when to introduce humor or relief is essential; strategic chapter breaks can enhance suspense and keep readers invested in multiple storylines.

Skillful storytelling involves creating anticipation by leaving unresolved threads before shifting focus, akin to engaging dinner table conversations.

Utilizing Color as a Metaphor for Emotional Range

The metaphor of a color wheel illustrates emotional transitions within storytelling; contrasting colors (like blue and orange) amplify each other’s impact.

Rhythm and Structure in Narrative Development

When weaving multiple narratives, it’s vital to create connections between chapters that resonate with previous scenes, ensuring coherence across timelines.

Different narrative structures pose unique challenges regarding timing and perspective shifts; understanding these dynamics is key to effective storytelling.

Personal Insights on Writing Process

An innate sense of rhythm derived from musical experience aids in crafting compelling narratives; recognizing when writing flows versus when it stalls is critical.

Observations about physical cues during writing (like rocking back and forth) reveal deeper insights into creative flow and productivity.

The Art of Rhythm in Writing and Music

The Flow of Writing

The speaker discusses how their writing creates a rhythm that allows readers to flow through the text without interruption, making it easy to read from start to finish.

Emphasizes that the sentences and ideas are interconnected, contributing to a seamless reading experience akin to music's cadence.

Intuitive Connection with Music

The concept of rhythm is described as pre-intellectual; listeners often feel a connection to music before they consciously recognize it.

The speaker illustrates this by sharing how physical reactions (like foot-tapping) precede cognitive recognition of enjoying a song.

Influence of Rhythm on Songwriting

Paul Simon is highlighted as an exemplary songwriter who begins his creative process with rhythm, blending lyrical beauty with rhythmic structure.

The speaker notes Simon’s technique of repeating lines for rhythmic effect, showcasing artistry in simplicity.

Similarities Between Music and Comedy

A comparison is drawn between music and comedy; both rely on instinctive responses rather than rigid frameworks. If something works, it should be embraced without over-analysis.

Liberation Through Rhythm

An anecdote about a teacher who stutters but excels at freestyle rap illustrates how rhythm can liberate expression and creativity.

Writers and artists seek moments where they find their "gold," creating beautiful expressions that resonate deeply with audiences.

Humility in Faith-Based Writing

When writing about faith, humility becomes essential. This perspective allows writers to transcend ego and connect more profoundly with the subject matter.

Reference is made to Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead," which exemplifies deep reflection on life through honest storytelling.

The Beauty of Humility and Faith in Writing

The Exquisite Nature of Observations

The speaker reflects on a pastor's humility before God, emphasizing the beauty found in simple observations, such as young people playing with water.

A poignant moment is described where the pastor admires the world’s beauty while facing his mortality, highlighting a deep appreciation for life's fleeting joys.

Writing Inspired by Humility

The speaker argues that true beauty in writing emerges from humility and admiration for God's creation, contrasting it with self-centered writing.

Psalms are cited as examples of beautiful writing born from pleas to God, showcasing how vulnerability can lead to profound expression.

Marveling at the Divine

When faith is integrated into writing authentically, it allows for a sense of wonder and awe that transcends ordinary language.

This marveling creates an understanding of something greater beyond our immediate perception, akin to reaching towards infinity.

Personal Reflection on Faith

The speaker shares insights from their book "Have a Little Faith," discussing a rabbi's office filled with notes about God that reflect the complexity and mystery surrounding faith.

A humorous anecdote about opening a file labeled "God" reveals that understanding God involves grappling with questions rather than definitive answers.

Legacy and Understanding Death

After the rabbi's passing, he left behind recorded messages addressing fundamental questions about belief in God and what happens after death.

His final message emphasizes that faith is rooted in uncertainty; knowing would eliminate the need for faith itself.

Exploring Biblical Characters and the Nature of Songwriting

The Concept of Writing About Biblical Characters

The speaker contemplates writing a book about a lesser-known biblical character, considering Job as a potential subject. They aim to explore aspects of the character not typically covered in existing literature.

Emphasizing historical context, the speaker expresses interest in creating an original narrative that reflects the beliefs and era of the character, likening it to playing with unique creative tools.

The speaker believes that writing with humility is essential and views this project as a healthy exercise for personal growth.

Language and Iconic Songs

A discussion arises around classic songs, particularly referencing "Midnight Train," highlighting how certain lyrics can be puzzling yet captivating.

The speaker compares abstract language in songwriting to abstract art, noting how word combinations can evoke feelings without clear meanings.

An interesting fact about Detroit is shared: it's the only U.S. city where Canada lies south, making "South Detroit" a humorous misnomer since it refers to Canada.

Elements of Good Songwriting

The speaker identifies key components of effective songwriting: rhythm that encourages foot-tapping and memorable hooks that linger in listeners' minds.

Lyrics should resonate with audiences; while poetic depth can enhance beauty, it may hinder popularity if too complex or obscure.

A distinction is made between what critics appreciate versus what fans enjoy in music—catchiness and singability are crucial for fan engagement.

Themes of Love in Literature

Love emerges as a central theme in the speaker's current book project. They reflect on love's complexities and its prevalence across their previous works.

This book uniquely focuses on love itself rather than just incorporating love stories within broader narratives.

The exploration includes themes like regret and longing for past relationships, questioning whether one could have chosen differently regarding love interests.

The speaker acknowledges common human tendencies to compare one's relationship with others', leading to doubts about personal happiness or fulfillment in love.

Exploring the Depths of Love and Relationships

The Journey to Understanding Love

The speaker reflects on their desire to explore love, noting that age has provided them with perspective that they lacked in their 30s and 40s.

They emphasize the distinction between passion, crushes, lust, and true love, suggesting that understanding these differences is crucial for a deeper exploration of love.

The common focus on the initial stages of love—how it begins—is contrasted with a lack of discussion about sustaining love over time.

Nurturing Love Over Time

The metaphor of love as a flame illustrates how it requires nurturing; without care, it can extinguish or become destructive.

Personal anecdotes highlight the speaker's experience with true love and the importance of recognizing its value amidst life's challenges.

Characters and Their Relationship Dynamics

Introduction of protagonists Alfie and Gianna, who share a childhood connection in Africa before reuniting in college. Their relationship evolves from puppy love to deeper feelings.

Alfie's secret ability to change past events complicates their relationship dynamics when he attempts to engage Gianna in discussions about altering their history.

Consequences of Taking Love for Granted

A pivotal moment occurs when Gianna expresses her contentment with their current life, emphasizing acceptance over regret. This response leaves Alfie introspective about his powers.

As time passes, Alfie's wandering eye leads him into temptation. He learns that his magical ability does not apply to matters of true love.

Reflections on True Love

The narrative explores themes around appreciating love while having it versus longing for it once it's lost.

The book serves as a treatise on relationships—what happens when one fails to nurture true love and faces its absence later in life.

Sharing the Story

The speaker shares insights about reading their work aloud to their wife during the writing process, highlighting personal connections made through storytelling.

Exploring Love and Loss

Reading Experience and Emotional Connection

The speaker reflects on the experience of reading a book aloud, emphasizing how it allows for a different auditory perception of the text.

A warning is given about the jarring conclusion of the book, advising listeners not to skip ahead to avoid spoiling the ending.

The emotional impact of sharing the last line with a loved one is highlighted, showcasing a moment of affection that underscores personal dedication to the work.

Understanding Love's Depth

The speaker discusses taking love for granted, particularly in relationships where unconditional support is often overlooked.

There’s an acknowledgment that men may struggle to appreciate their partner's unwavering love amidst minor disagreements or issues.

Reflections on Old Age and Relationships

A story about witnessing an elderly couple at Chick-fil-A illustrates enduring love through simple acts like sharing ice cream.

The contrast between romanticized young love and the quiet strength of older couples' relationships is noted, suggesting society often overlooks this aspect.

Painful Experiences of Love Lost

A conversation with a recently divorced man reveals deep emotional scars from infidelity, highlighting how loss can linger long after separation.

The speaker connects themes of loss in his writing, noting that while many works address death, this particular narrative focuses on losing love rather than life itself.

Exploring Different Types of Loss

Distinctions are made between loss due to death versus loss of love; both carry pain but manifest differently in one's life experiences.

The narrative explores how one can still be physically present yet emotionally absent in relationships, creating a unique form of longing and grief.

References are made to songs capturing feelings associated with lost emotions, illustrating the yearning for past connections that no longer exist.

Exploring Themes of Loss and Connection

Understanding Loss Beyond Death

The speaker reflects on the theme of loss, emphasizing that it can manifest in various forms, not just through death. They describe it as a "flame going out," suggesting a more nuanced understanding of what loss entails.

The conversation highlights the relatability of these themes, indicating that many people may find resonance with the idea of experiencing loss in different contexts throughout their lives.

There is an invitation for deeper engagement with the audience, suggesting that readers or listeners will connect with these sentiments on a personal level.

Humor is introduced into the discussion when one participant expresses openness to returning to the show, creating a light-hearted atmosphere amidst serious topics.

The dialogue underscores the importance of sharing experiences related to loss and connection, fostering community and understanding among individuals.