Truman Capote: Writing Advice

"I often use 'real' people in my work, and then create a story around them.  You must get into the habit of writing even if it is only a paragraph a day.  Try keeping a journal.  One good exercise is to describe, in a page or two, some scene or person exactly as you see them:  when I was your age I used to do this exercise religiously--it strengthens you, like piano practice . . . In any event, write about what you know about.  Write a portrait of someone you really like very much, then one of someone you really dislike."  Truman Capote, Capote: A Biography by Gerald Clarke, from a letter  written to Alvin Dewey's son.