What does S.E. Hinton believe it takes to become a successful writer?

S.E. Hinton, author of the iconic novel *The Outsiders*, has offered insights into what she believes it takes to become a successful writer. However, she's not one to give prescriptive advice. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of honesty, authenticity, and perseverance.

Here are some key themes from her reflections:

* Write what you know: Hinton believes that drawing from personal experiences, emotions, and observations is crucial. This authenticity resonates with readers, creating a sense of connection.

* Don't be afraid to be yourself: Hinton writes from a genuine voice, reflecting her own personality and perspective. This honesty makes her writing relatable and engaging.

* Persevere through challenges: Writing is a challenging craft, and success often requires dedication and perseverance. Hinton emphasizes that setbacks are inevitable, but it's important to keep writing and improving.

* Find your own voice: Hinton encourages aspiring writers to develop a unique voice and style that reflects their individual experiences and perspectives.

* Read widely: Reading widely exposes you to different writing styles and approaches, which can help you refine your own craft.

Overall, Hinton believes that successful writing is not about following a rigid formula, but about embracing your own experiences, developing your unique voice, and persevering through the challenges of writing.