Leonard's rules make me rethink things. Every time I read them.

Richard, some of these lists are more resonate than others and Leonards is especially popular it seems. The larger point about list of rules and what-not is it underscores the reality that there is no right way to write. All writers are different. All stories are different. I like to post things like this from time to time because you never know when one rule or aphorism is going to hit a reader - wham! - precisely what they need to hear at that moment. At least that's my hope.

Plus I just always find it fascinating to see how different writers approach their craft.

I can't agree more with Elmore. All that prep work, backstory, detailed character description, description of place has to stay outside the draft. Wouldn't this show though, when you're an aspiring writer, that you're writing is vague...

What's the rule about no sex? Is it like an athlete losing stamina after losing man juice?

@Kibrius Pop: There's a metaphor that goes around, comparing writing to an iceberg. All that prep work you do? 90% of it is below the surface and not visible to the conscious eye, like most of a floating iceberg is below the surface of the water. What we read -- and what we see of an iceberg -- is that 10% above the surface. I'd say for most projects, and certainly screenplays where the writing is all about minimalism, that is true. Some novels, not so much. But that's all dictated by the nature and needs of the story.

@Show: Not sure where this comes from. Maybe to get other writers out of singles' bars and give Leonard less competition!