This was a very interesting read to say the least. The first thing I learned from reading this was that a normal format is not always the best way to get your idea across. Often Oswalt will use strange formats like wine lists, greeting card analysis, and film parody. He doesn't just use these for comedic effect but always has something to write about when he chooses these formats. The other thing I learned from reading this book is that you should just leave out the worst parts of your story. Normally you would think this is common sense but Patton Oswalt makes this painfully obvious in some of his sections when he writes "I left this section out because it sucked" or something similar. It's just a nice reminder to make sure that your story has no dead parts or unnecessary parts.
The first thing I learned from reading this was that a normal format is not always the best way to get your idea across. Often Oswalt will use strange formats like wine lists, greeting card analysis, and film parody. He doesn't just use these for comedic effect but always has something to write about when he chooses these formats.
The other thing I learned from reading this book is that you should just leave out the worst parts of your story. Normally you would think this is common sense but Patton Oswalt makes this painfully obvious in some of his sections when he writes "I left this section out because it sucked" or something similar. It's just a nice reminder to make sure that your story has no dead parts or unnecessary parts.