Choosing the Right Book for Your Playwriting Journey
Choosing the Right Book for Your Playwriting Journey
Whether you're a beginner eager to jumpstart your playwriting skills or an experienced playwright looking for insightful guidance, selecting the right books can make a significant difference. This article provides a comprehensive guide to some of the best books on how to write a play, along with tips on how to improve your craft.
Essential Playwriting Books
To write a play, you don't need an extraordinary talent, but you do need a good understanding of basic grammar rules and the ability to observe and capture human behavior convincingly. Reading plays extensively will also help you understand what it takes to create a dramatically effective script. Here are some highly recommended books that can guide you through the process:
1. Lajos Egri's "The Art of Dramatic Writing"
"The Art of Dramatic Writing" by Lajos Egri is a practical manual for developing a well-structured and compelling story. Egri discusses the essential elements of a play, including character arcs, conflicts, and the structure of acts and scenes. The book has been a favorite among playwrights for decades and is highly recommended for its depth and clarity.
2. David Ball's "Backwards and Forwards"
David Ball's "Backwards and Forwards" is another key resource, praised for its practical approach to dramaturgy. The book covers the theory and practice of writing plays, including character development, dialogue, and stage direction. Although Ball hasn't been read by the author, it is considered a valuable resource by many playwrights.
3. William Goldman's "The Season"
For a more unconventional approach, consider William Goldman's memoir, "The Season." While it provides valuable insights into the business and craft of playwriting, it offers a unique perspective that can inspire and challenge your understanding of the theater. However, note that some of the content may be outdated or contain offensive material, particularly regarding discussions of gay characters.
Additional Resources and Practical Tips
Immersing yourself in the world of theater can greatly enhance your playwriting skills. Attending plays and becoming familiar with different styles and techniques is crucial. Additionally, there are specific formatting guidelines for plays, and you can find these guidelines online or by purchasing scripts from the Dramatist Guild.
Some ten-minute play contests also provide detailed instructions on formatting, which can be helpful as you refine your style. Reading the works of renowned playwrights like William Shakespeare, Arthur Miller, Samuel Beckett, and others can provide valuable lessons on structure, character development, and storytelling.
Conclusion
Writing a play is both an art and a craft, and mastering it requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. By reading these recommended books and immersing yourself in the theater, you can develop the skills and confidence needed to write powerful and engaging plays. Whether you choose a traditional or unconventional approach, the journey to becoming a skilled playwright is sure to be rewarding.