I find that the best way to improve one's writing skills (besides
practice, practice, good C&C, and more practice), is to read good books.
While Tom Clancy, in my opinion, isn't one of the greatest writers out
there, he spins a good yarn, and only after a half-dozen books did he
fall into the trap of loving one of his characters too much (i.e. Jack
Ryan, President of the United States).

So yes, I think reading good books can influence your writing skills.

Jamie
-- 
       "Why are they wearing bras?"
          -Rachel Wilde, age 4,
while watching the Dirty *ahem* Lovely Angels...
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