“Everywhere I have sought rest and not found it, except sitting in a corner by myself with a book”
– Thomas a Kempis
Most people think “writer” is a noun and “writing” is a verb. Not quite. Writing is a talent, a skill. Writing well is a gift. But it’s also a calling, every bit as much of a calling as is the “call” to be a pastor, missionary, doctor, lawyer, butcher, baker, or candlestick maker. What kind of “calling” is writing – and how do you know if you have it? Let’s start with some of the differences between “Writer Wannabees” and “Real Writers.”
It’s not unusual for Writer Wannabees to fancy themselves the Real Deal. Lord love ‘em, these are the folks who dabble in, play at, or “write” bi-annually, “whether they need to or not.” Their version of “writer” is anyone who can bang out a few semi-coherent sentences or pages to wow the fam or undiscriminating friends and associates. Some think their attempt at cranking out the next great American novel earns them the appellation. Or their degree in English. Or landing a book contract. Or getting published.
I beg to differ.
Call me old-fashioned, but my version of Real Writer – as opposed to hobbyists or the occasional, haphazard Writer Wannabee – doesn’t have so much to do with talent as it does inspiration, motivation, and attitude.
More later, so stay tuned.
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Pages & Paws 