* Early Influences: King has cited various influences, including his father, who was a merchant seaman and told him stories, and his love for comics, particularly horror comics.
* Childhood Writing: He started writing stories and poems early on, and even sold his first short story to a local newspaper at the age of 13.
* The Turning Point: King's passion for writing never left, but it truly reignited after a terrifying experience in 1967. He was walking home from a movie and was terrified by a moving van that seemed to be following him. This experience inspired him to write his first novel, "Carrie."
* Persistence and Rejection: "Carrie" was rejected by several publishers before it was finally accepted. This didn't deter King, and he continued writing, even during his time working as a high school teacher.
* Breaking Through: "Carrie" was published in 1974 and became a bestseller, propelling King to fame and solidifying his career as a writer.
It's important to note that King's path to success wasn't immediate. It was fueled by a persistent passion for writing, coupled with an early love for storytelling and a profound experience that ignited his imagination. He faced rejection, but his dedication and perseverance ultimately led him to become the renowned author he is today.