I'm re-reading, "Stephen King On Writing." It's a fantastic book. I've previously learned a ton and been inspired by it. You should get a copy of it and read it.

Now, I'm going back through it. And here is something I missed the first time.

He writes...

(note: he was six years old at the time)

"At some point I began to write my own stories. Imitation preceded creation; I would copy Combat Casey comics word for word in my blue Horse tablet, sometimes adding my own descriptions where they seemed appropriate."

Read that again...

I've heard Gary Halbert, Michel Fortin and others "preach" the virtues of copying the "masters" word-for-word to learn the art and science of great copywriting.

To me, this is just another -- somewhat related -- confirmation!!!

Any of you who have used this method of learning -- or a variation of it -- could probably share some additional and useful tips.

Warmly,

Great point JP....

On that subject of the King...most of his books have been made into movies (small/big screen.) He has been asked about it several times and explains it in an article....Great stuff for copywriters trying to create a picture...generate emotional response from the reader.....check out the link below.


http://www.wordplayer.com/pros/pr13.King.Stephen.html

Not just in word for word...but style.

When I first started writing, I used to copy Chesterton a lot. He was brilliant and I knew there was no way my work could compare with his. But I kept trying to mimic his style. After a while, I got good at it, but I was mixing it with other styles.

Eventually, it all funneled into something. Someday, I hope people will talk about 'Eric Engel' style. Till then, I still try to mimic the masters now and then.

Except Gary Halbert :P