Writing a book before putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard can seem like a daunting task, but Carlos Fuentes suggests that it's essential to do just this. In practical terms, he means preparing and organizing the narrative and characters in one’s mind thoroughly before actually starting to write.
The deeper meaning of Fuentes' statement lies in the process of mental preparation and creative incubation. By thinking through a book in detail beforehand, an author can refine their ideas and construct a more coherent plot, ensuring that every element fits logically within the overall narrative structure. This approach allows for smoother writing when the actual drafting begins since most of the hard work has already been done mentally. Additionally, it implies that creativity is not confined to the act of writing itself but rather extends to the entire thought process behind the creation.
Carlos Fuentes was a renowned Mexican author known for his rich literary contributions and deep understanding of human nature through narrative storytelling. His works often explore themes of identity, history, and politics within Latin American contexts. As a prolific writer with numerous accolades to his name, including the Jerusalem Prize for literature that deals courageously with contemporary issues, Fuentes exemplifies the kind of thoughtful preparation he advocates in crafting his books mentally before committing them to paper.
