Curtis Sittenfeld on Writing: Openness, routine, and authentic storytelling

I'm a huge fan of Curtis Sittenfeld, and Prep and Rodham are favourites. Her writing is always sharply observed and full of depth and memorable characters. In a recent story from The Guardian, she explores her writing process and shares how openness and authenticity influence her best-selling novels.

Embracing openness in writing

Sittenfeld emphasises the importance of openness in her craft, aiming to create an intimate connection between readers and characters. This approach is evident in works like American Wife and Rodham, where she explores complex personalities with depth and nuance. By allowing her characters to be genuine and multifaceted, Sittenfeld invites readers into their inner worlds, fostering a profound sense of empathy and understanding.

Balancing routine with flexibility

While Sittenfeld values structure in her writing routine, she also acknowledges the need for flexibility. She keeps a Post-it note beside her computer, noting each session's date, start time, and beginning page number. This practice holds her accountable and demonstrates that consistent, incremental progress leads to substantial development. However, she remains open to the organic evolution of her narratives, allowing stories to unfold naturally rather than adhering strictly to an outline.

She has previously talked about how much time she spends writing, and how that has changed over the years:

'Also, being a mother has made me much more efficient. It used to be that I would only write if I had at least 4 hours. Now, I will write if I only have 90 minutes.'

Authenticity through personal experience

Drawing from her own life, Sittenfeld infuses her narratives with authenticity. In Prep, she captures the intricacies of adolescence, while Sisterland delves into the unique bond between twins. Her willingness to incorporate personal experiences and observations enriches her storytelling, making her characters relatable and her plots compelling.

Through a blend of openness, disciplined routine, and personal insight, Curtis Sittenfeld crafts narratives that resonate deeply with readers, offering authentic portrayals of complex characters and relationships. 

You can read the Guardian story here.