What’s the secret of good writing?

In this column, Oliver Burkeman shares a secret to good writing that he learned from an experienced journalist. He emphasizes the importance of deleting unnecessary words and using simple, concise language to communicate effectively. He discusses the challenge of letting go of familiar ideas and phrases and learning to embrace brevity and clarity. Burkeman explains that editing and rewriting are essential skills for any writer and suggests that trimming away the excess can lead to more impactful and engaging writing. He concludes by emphasizing the value of editing as a practice that not only improves writing but also has the potential to transform one's approach to life itself.