On Writing vs Danse Macabre

**Goodlovin** · February 22nd, 2010

I finally bought On Writing with a few others books and I waited until I read the others before reading it. I then ended up going to the book store and picking up a bunch of gangster mafia books and am now almost finished with them (I am nearing the end of Black Mass a story of Whitey Bulger and the Boston FBI and how they were in cahoots) and realize once again On Writing is staring at me waiting for me to read it.

I think the reason for my trepidation is the fact that I really didn't enjoy Danse in the least and I keep avoiding it because I don't want to dislike another of Mr Kings books.

It is probably a terrible comparison no?

**Moderator** · February 23rd, 2010

On Writing is more anecdotal about Stephen's life so it would give you an insight about him as a person and his writing career. You could skip the technical part about how to write if that's not something that interests you.

**Dana Jean** · February 23rd, 2010

I loved Danse Macabre. It is one of my most favorite SK books but probably because, although I'm ten or eleven years younger than him, I grew up watching the same stuff he did. I found it to be very anecdotal too.

**Doc Wilson** · February 23rd, 2010

I didn't care for Danse either but I loved On Writing. I don't think you have to worry.

**Haunted** · February 23rd, 2010

If you are interested in Mr. King as a person and how he goes about his craft, On Writing is a treasure.

**Bryan James** · February 23rd, 2010

"On Writing" is kinda like sitting in your comfy green chair and listening to (I almost put my character's name in) King yammer at ya. If you have the book, give it a shot. I've read it more than any of his other books.

Also, most people can't pronouce 'macabre" correctamundo anywhei.

~BJS

**Kaleidoscope** · March 3rd, 2010

I tried to read Danse several times and never got further than a few pages. I just wasn't interested. I gave it away eventually. But I love On Writing and have read it several times. I find them quite different reads. So I'd definitely give it a try.

**SharonC** · March 4th, 2010

Two very different, but very good books, I thought. On Writing was more like sitting down with Mr. King and having a chat.

**randallFlaggfan1** · March 29th, 2010

Originally Posted by SharonC

Two very different, but very good books, I thought. On Writing was more like sitting down with Mr. King and having a chat.

I couldn't have said it better, SharonC. To me, On Writing seemed like a very intimate experience.

**GNTLGNT** · March 29th, 2010

Both books are probably about as close as I'll ever come to an actual sit down conversation with the Maestro, so pour me a another cup of brew and put the footrest out on the recliner and lets "talk" Uncle Steve!