So…You Want To Be a Writer?

Along my writing journey, I’ve met many people who say they feel like they have at least one book in them. Perhaps some hardship or illness taught great life lessons. Or a nostalgic past begs to be relayed to current and future generations. Whatever the cache of experience fodder, most of us dream of writing.

Famous writers are often colorful characters who exude a certain mystique. We’re intrigued by their habits and sources of inspiration. But if you want to be a writer, here are some things you need to know before launching off into the world of pens, prose, and publishing:

Fiction is harder to write than it appears – We’ve all read a great novel, one that keeps you up half the night, propelling you forward from one exciting, suspenseful chapter to the next. As you near the end of the book, you slow your reading pace, savoring the final passages. Closing the book, you already miss the characters and begin searching to see when the sequel is available. Then, you mutter, “I could do that. I could write a novel.” But fiction is harder than it appears. Characterization, plot, setting, voice, point of view, and pacing all factor in. Without a firm grasp of each of these elements, mediocre, if not awful, fiction results.

Nonfiction pays the bills – The vision of earning a six-figure income writing is most often a mirage. While you dream of hitting the bestseller list, garner some experience and publishing credits writing nonfiction. Start by writing for church or school newsletters. Then you can expand by submitting to a regional magazine, newspaper, or an on-line e-zine. Anthologies like the Chicken Soup and Cup of Comfort series are always looking for stories. The pay may be modest, but once you get several nonfiction publishing credits, more opportunities will come your way.

Write a book later – Many dive headlong into writing the great American novel or a rambling personal experience tome. Starting your writing journey by writing a book makes about as much sense as trying out for the U. S. Olympic team before ever training or competing at a local level. A better plan is to start by writing an article, short story, or devotional. Not only are you more likely to complete a smaller piece, you also gain experience outlining and sticking to a central theme – elements that are important once you begin writing a book.

Even good writers need editing – Many think their words are divinely inspired, and couldn’t possibly need improvement. But all writers, even good ones, benefit from critique and editing. It’s impossible for the author of a piece, even with spell checker, to catch all the mistakes because we’re notorious for reading what we meant to say rather than what is actually on the page. We transpose letters, use one word while intending another, dangle participles, mix metaphors, and misplace modifiers. Frequently, we speak and write in passive voice, substituting weak forms of the verb “to be” for more desirable action verbs. If you want to improve the quality of your writing, submit it for critique with a local writing group or at a conference. Enter a contest or join an on-line critique group. Later, if your work is selected for publication, accept the publisher’s edits and learn from them.

Follow the rules – Many beginning writers look at publisher guidelines and think those are for others, not me. Think again. Guidelines help writers come as close as possible to the publisher’s needs. Ignoring the rules almost always guarantees rejection of your work. Proper manuscript formatting is essential to prevent your work from immediately appearing to be that of a novice. Formatting and Submitting your Manuscript by Jack & Glenda Neff and Don Prues (Writer’s Digest Books) is a helpful tool for obtaining a professional appearance for your submission.

Publishing is a slow process – Often those just sticking a toe in the publishing ocean think they can dash off something and see it in print a few months later. Not likely. Most magazines work six months to a year ahead. Thus, they are currently considering and acquiring articles for fall, winter, or next year. Book publishing is even slower. Even if you managed to get a book contract today (and the process of actually getting the contract can take six months or more), the release date for your book will be in 2011. Even with a contract, print schedules are subject to change. Many writers are impatient and opt for self-publishing. But wouldn’t you rather get paid for your writing rather than paying to be published?

Take time to learn the craft – Most things in life require a certain level of study and practice to achieve proficiency. However, “wannabe” writers think they can just declare themselves writers and make it so. But patience, practice, and perseverance are the mileposts on the successful writer’s journey. Learn the craft of writing by:

1. Attending conferences – A writing conference is a great way to get an overview of the publishing process, meet editors, mingle with other writers, learn, and gain inspiration.
2. Joining on-line writer loops – A variety of writing groups are available on-line. Some are fee-based. Others aren’t.
3. Reading books on writing – There are “how to” writing books available for just about every genre. Writer’s market guides give you information on where to submit your writing for publication. Check the library, local bookstores, or on-line book sites
4. Joining a critique group – While on-line groups and books provide a tremendous amount of information, there is no substitute for a local critique group. A local group provides writing opportunities, encouragement, and support to transform your dream of being a published author into reality.