1. Read - I am shocked by the number of people I meet who tell me they want to write but they never read. That is like wanting to work in film but never watching movies (wait I know a bunch of people who do that). I agree with the other bloggers and writers who have said it's important to read different genres. If you write horror don't limit yourself to only horror books. Read non-fiction, poetry, short stories, anything you can get your hands on. Also make sure to mix in some quality works with you light reads and vice-versa.
2. Write - Hard to be a writer if you are not writing. Stop reading about writing and just do it. The words don't have to be perfect. It's all about rewriting anyway. There are two schools of thought on this. Some say to write every single day including weekends. Other says Monday -Friday, just like any other job. You need a day or two to have a life. Alot depends on your schedule. If you work full time and/or have kids you will have to squeeze out time whenever possible. It is important that you find that time. Which leads me to number three.
3. Have/find a group of creative people - They don't have to be writers-musicians, photographers, chefs, anyone who creates will be helpful. Let's be blunt. In our culture at the moment the arts are taking a beating. Other people who are not artists may not understand your writing, seeing it as a waste of time (because as we know in America if you are not making money every single minute of the day, something is wrong). You might start to question your sanity and wonder what is the point unless you can be the next J.K Rowlings? Remember J.K. wrote that book because she had a story to tell, the rest is gravy. Having creative people in your life will inspire you and you in return will inspire them. One of the things I love about writing is the amazing community of writers in my life who have been so supportive.
Speaking of supportive writers, Jen also nominated me for an award. Saying:
Ragazza talks straight up about her experiences as a writer and producer, making the transition from LA to Rome. No matter what her subject - the movie biz, fashion, racism, music, politics, love of all things Italian, Ragazza fills her posts with humor and clear perspective.
I'm verkelmpt, thanks Jen.
This award has been given to many of the blogs I love. I would like to tag Bleeding Espresso, a fantastic writer for the writer Meme. Michelle, If you have done it or are too busy not to worry. If any other writers want to share their advice please do!
Next Friday I will have another Flashback. Hint: This man proved once and for all Jheri-curls and fireworks do not mix.
8 comments:
Michael Jackson!
Gibber got it... Pepsi fiasco's and shenanigans!
I've been gone way too long. This is really good writing advice, simple but good basics...
Thanks!
Scarlett & Viaggiatore
gibber - yes you are correct.
wanderlust - ha. yes poor MIchael. It was a downspiral after that.
Thanks for the compliment. Hope all is well in your world.
Good advice. I'm curious, though, in your previous post, you said the LM asked about your life goals. Did he ask you what you hope to accomplish with your writing? (Be the next JKR? A comfortable living? Make the NYT bestseller list? I'm just curious cause it sounded like a job interview.
BTW, I remember when I was just starting college and so many people I knew said they wanted to be writers. I always thought, what would they write about? They've only just finished high school. It wasn't like they'd been to war or traveled or even suffered in any way.
I loved your advice - particularly the bit about the creative community around you, because I haven't thought of that, and yes, it's so, so important. Makes me want to move from the U.S. Oh, and yeah, you're doing that! ;-)
homebody - Yes he did. It was a combination of job interview type questions and life coach type questions. It was very interesting.
jen - Having other creative people in your life really does help. You realize other people are going through the same drama and doubt. I look at my friends who are super talented and they inspire me.
Great advice, those are definitely areas of improved I can work on before my next blog post.
obiddle - thank you for the props and for stopping by.
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