I agree with Kurt Vonnegut here...the most crucial element is having something to say that is from a different perspective, which may connect with the reader.
What are the essential elements of good writing?
Having a theme that will resonate with my audience. Knowing my audience. Truth in character, knowing the character as if I had been the shrink and they--my client. Good writing is subjective. What some enjoy reading, others don't. However, as an author, I need to write that which inspires me — and develop my craft as best I can. Developing craft, not necessarily worried about what will sell.
Dj
I write three-four hours a day. Rewrite and edit for an hour. Marketing for another hour. And then, if possible, read most of the afternoon for my review magazine Le Coeur de l'Artiste.
I don't think I've ever experienced writer's block. There have been moments when I have been unsure where to go next in a story, but I continue, hoping to find my way. My advice. Write at least one to two hours a day, every day! Social media doesn't count. Sometimes I interview the character for the morning's writing (an hour) to see what they have in mind for the next plot point. Working cause-and-effect with a character can prompt my imagination to see where to go next. Always-- knowing your character is key to the plot.
Difficult? I like the word "challenging" better. The most challenging aspect of my process is keeping my character on track to the ending point. I sometimes tangent, but hey, I just cut and copy these moments for use on another day.
