Yes, you!
I can’t count how many people have told me that they have always wanted to write, but can’t seem to start. The reasons vary from I wasn’t an English major in college, to I can’t spell, the dog ate my outline, or I just don’t have the time. Writing does take time (actually a good deal of time), but I suspect that most people hesitate because they are afraid that they won’t produce something worthwhile. I get it. I still have that fear, but be brave! Chances are that the first story you write might not be great, but over time they WILL get better, and you will be happy that you started.
First, a college degree is NOT required to be a great writer. William Shakespeare, Ray Bradbury, Truman Capote, Harlan Ellison, and Agatha Christie all have two things in common---they were all great writers, and they never graduated college. If these writers can do it, then you certainly can.
I think there are only two prerequisites to becoming a good writer. One---you must enjoy reading. This doesn’t mean that you read all of the time or even that you have time to read now, but you must enjoy reading. Only by reading quality writing do we learn the art of pacing, character development, and generally good storytelling. I can’t imagine someone becoming a good writer who has never enjoyed reading.
Second---you must have a story you want to tell others. It doesn’t have to be complicated, long, autobiographical, sophisticated, or, God forbid, epic. You just have to have a desire to entertain others with a good yarn.
If you pass both of these tests, then you are on your way. Steel your courage, drink heavily, and prepare to start on a wonderful adventure. These early posts will focus more on the process of writing than the mechanics. We’ll get to the mechanics as we go. Next time I’ll talk about first steps. Have a great Fourth of July!
Jeff Altabef, author of the new thriller Fourteenth Colony. To learn more about Fourteenth Colony go to: http://www.amazon.com/Fourteenth-Colony-ebook/dp/B00C2D97OS/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1...
