Quote:
Originally Posted by ApK
I think the problem with the good/bad writing dichotomy (aside from being a false dichotomy) is that it's often a "No True Scotsman" argument.
Not limited to taste, but to whatever aspect of writing the person making the claim considers 'good,' at least once you get past the basics of standard spelling, usage and grammar.
But as far as "literary merit" or "good writing" beyond those basics, I'm not buying most people's claims to discerning objective standards.
I think I'm just agreeing with DiapDealer here.
Don't tell me Stephen King is not a 'good writer.' Being so effective a storyteller that so many people get wrapped up in--and emotionally moved by-- so many of your books is just as valid as standard of 'good writer' as any other. That's what I call a True Scotsman, anyway.
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Exactly. A *good writer* brings me into the story and makes me live it. For me, if that doesn't happen, it's just a story--it can be entertaining, and I may read more from that author, but I won't necessarily seek out books from the author.
...and yes, usually, Stephen King is one of those authors. There are quite a few...Heinlein is one, David Weber, J.K.Rowling, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Madeleine L'Engle...Ursula K. Le Guin is not, at least for me.
Shari