War Books: On Writing

Our partners over at West Point’s Modern War Institute published a “War Books” titled “On Writing.” MWI’s editor, John Amble, argues that:

It is a professional service—even a professional obligation—then, to write. Have an idea about the specific capabilities that will be required on the future battlefield? Put pen to paper. Have thoughts about the future of your branch? Share them. Want to engage with doctrinal concepts and explore how they should be implemented by your unit? Start typing.

Of course, writing for publication is a new experience for many, one that can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. Professional writing is a journey. The first steps don’t need to be perfect—they just need to be in the right direction. The following books and other resources will help you make sure that they are.

Click here to see the three books he recommends.

My favorite book on writing is Political Writing by Adam Garfinkle and David Brooks. While the title may turn off military readers, the book focuses on persuasive writing and speaking with valuable insights, reading assignments, and exercises for each chapter. Political Writing is a little pricey, so consider it alongside John’s recommendations.

What is your favorite book on writing? How do you use it?