Ten Things I Wish I'd Known about Being a Writer
My first published writing appeared in print more than 20 years ago. Since then, I've been fortunate to have consistent opportunities to write for publication, including three books, a syndicated newspaper column, and a number of articles, devotionals, and Bible studies. Last week I had an opportunity to speak with a group of aspiring writers a the Indianapolis Christian Writers Conference. I shared some of the things I wish I'd known 20 years go that would have helped me along as a young writer.
Here is the outline. CDs of the presentation are also available.
1. Commerce
Writing is art; publishing is business. I missed some early opportunities because I didn't understand that publishers were more concerned (rightly so) with making a profit that with allowing me to express my artistic desires.
2. Humility
The difference between good and great writing is the difference between the sun and moon. My early success led me to believe that I had "arrived" as a writer. How wrong I was. Learning this craft is a lifelong journey.
3. Audience
You must write for the reader and not for yourself.
4. Identity
Writers are not a special class of people. They are ordinary people who can and do write. I wish I'd owned that identity from the start; I would have had more confidence to begin writing and begin submitting.
5. Movement
It is not enough to say something true or well. You must bring people to a place they’ve not been before.
6. Dedication
The hardest part of writing is sitting down. I wrongly assumed that the hardest part of writing a book is getting a contract. The hardest part of writing a book is, well, writing the book.
7. Mission
You must understand why you write,what you hope to gain and what you hope to accomplish.
8. Originality
The sin of plagiarism is not stealing but copying. I spent too much time trying to imitate the style of others, and that hindered me in developing my own voice.
9. Passion
Your audience wants to see the human being behind the words. Readers want a connection with the author; they must feel the passion that you bring to your writing.
10. Professionalism
Learn to behave like a business partner with your publisher because that is what you are!
What advice would you give to someone who would like to begin writing? Continue Reading >
5 Comments:
I agree with nearly everything you said (I didn't get hung up on #8, I made other mistakes). I've given a similar talk at writer's conferences that includes many of these themes not only because I think new writers can learn from them but because I continue to need reminders of them. Great post.
Jennifer .. Thanks for the positive comments. I wonder what items I'll add to the list in 20 more years.
Fantastic post, Larry! You clearly and creatively stated the heart of what we do. Writing is thought of as a solitary profession in many ways. I'd add that I've discovered that's a myth. We never create alone--God and our reader have to always be right there with us in our minds, hearts, prayers, and words.
Love it- especially #5. I think that goes along with the originality portion AND the connection with the author. Wish I could have heard the talk! Great topic!
Holley ... I should also have said that reading is vitally important for a writer. When I am the least creative and energetic is when I am empty. Reading others fills my tank with new ideas and creativity.
Hillary ... Connection to the author should probably have been #1. Took me a long time to learn that one.
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