Superstitions Debunked: Jorge Luis Borges's Tips on Writing

You must have learned some tips, from the great authors no less, on writing. You even come across some bizarre recommendations (like having a cat for good luck). You wonder if all of these words of wisdom can help you become a better (college) essay writer. It’s better to take a mental note on Jorge Luis Borges's advice on aspiring novelists.

Jorge Luis Borges, a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, was one of the giant figures in Latin American literature. He was renowned for creating strange characters that may represent the author's vision of his homeland during his childhood. Borges, who became blind during much of his adult life, would rely on his memories of his early years (when he was able to see). Books like "The Book on Imaginary Beings" reflected his surreal approach to the state of his native Argentina. It would become a trademark of Latin American authors, but Borges's case was more than that. An idiosyncratic, if not stately, vision of Argentina had been in the author's mind, uncompromising until his very last breath. Aspiring writers and college students could also learn from Borges’s depreciative view of his contributions to literature. It won't be wise to think that you're good enough, but this is not this post is all about.

Borges's numerous essays were devoted to writing, where he debunked superstitions on writing. It’s time to pay more attention (to this post).

The Superstitious Ethics of Writers

There's a deeper meaning behind the words you're reading. You might be trying too hard to understand metaphor, unaware that you don't have to use that figure of speech often. Borges argued that literature, at the very end, was autobiographical. It should put an end to the debate on J.R.R. Tolkien's inspiration behind The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Oxford may be an antithesis of Middle Earth, but this wouldn't be what the item would be all about. A literary character may turn out to be the author's acquaintance. It should surprise you, as you expect a stranger, but this should give you an idea. You may be applying your knowledge in literary criticism, but your essay must include your personal experience (or belief). As Borges put it, your paper must be a confession of yourself. It should be an adventure, be it an unforgettable experience with your family (or friends) or a holiday with your parent(s) after receiving your high school diploma.

Authors seek perfection. Borges believed that all readers would become literary critics if they only look for an author's shortcomings in his (or her) work(s). He cited Miguel Cervantes, and how some critics ripped the Spaniard's "humble language". There were others who noted it, yet they pointed out that this aspect didn't diminish the (literary) significance of Don Quixote. You won't be expected to do the same thing (while writing your essay), but don't overthink while writing (your paper). It's important not to interrupt your thinking, and your ideas (or arguments) must be understood. You need to proofread your essay because grammatical errors and faulty sentence(s) could confuse your professors. If you're truly serious about writing, then invest your time on reading (and more reading). It would expand your vocabulary and make you aware of different writing style. If you want to find your own style, then you must start somewhere else. Read the works of your favorite authors carefully. Try to write a better version, if not write simply yet persuasively.

Must you write too many (or too less) words? Overstating something would be as inept as not saying it at all. This also applies to frequent use of words. It would be the only way to make your piece more interesting than what your coursemates have written (on a similar topic). If you’re still in the dark about it, then read Borges’s poems.

Does It Matter If Your Readers Won’t Return the Love?

The success of the Lord of the Rings trilogy would prompt Tolkien’s (academic) peers to treat the author with less affection than what he deserved. Likewise, Borges’s literary genius made him a celebrity in English-speaking countries. He became an enigma in his Argentina, though. It may prompt you to doubt your abilities, but don’t. If you truly love writing, then that’s all that matters. Your professors would notice a good composition, and one may mention you during a lecture. Don’t let it get to your head. This would be Borges’s attitude throughout his illustrious career.

There are also paradoxes in writing, which would differentiate the English-speaking authors from their French counterpart. You would get to know more about it when you decide to take writing seriously. It may (or may not) mean that you would publish your first novel soon, but it could be something else. A pursuit of it should make you more confident about your communication skills. This should be good enough. If you still doubt it, then ask for a second opinion. And don’t be afraid of criticism. Don’t let it play with your head as well.