This week's blog challenge writing prompt is "Worst writing advice I've gotten."
That would have come from a close family member who strongly suggested I relinquish my dreams and stop writing: "No one will ever want to read what you write." That hurt. It still stings, because that person still feels the same way. However, I refuse to give up my dreams and I continue to write. If I don't write, my brain will explode. How difficult is it to explain why I write? I describe it as a compulsion: the voices in my head want expression. It gets pretty damned crowded in there, you know. My mind seldom shuts down--which makes for many, many sleepless nights and a cranky you-know-who--because it's always working on a story. I might never write many of those stories, but that doesn't mean they're not occupying my brain. I cannot think of the last time I ever asked someone for writing advice. Probably because I don't. I'll seek advice regarding publishing, freelance business, etc., but not about writing. I learn from the advice given to others, cherry-picking those nuggets that strike me as particularly cogent and wise. I give advice. But I don't ask it. I know my craft. I fancy my skills have reached the pretty damned good stage. And I write what I want. I write because I need to write. And those who don't want to read it certainly don't have to. Luckily, some folks do and I appreciate them. 2/23/2018 08:43:35 am
Sadly, it seems family members can be the least supportive of our writing efforts. I guess the answer is not to expect it.
Holly Bargo
2/24/2018 02:36:52 pm
I've long since learned not to expect it. When it does happen, it's always a pleasant surprise. To my delight, though, I have two sisters-in-law who seem to like my books. 2/23/2018 12:10:46 pm
I've found family members to be some of the worst advisers. Most of them don't read my genre, much less follow the industry. Glad you shook off their negativity and kept going!
Holly Bargo
2/24/2018 02:37:48 pm
Most of my family don't read for pleasure, much less the genres in which I write. I do have two sisters-in-law who seem to like my work, though, which is always deeply appreciated. 2/24/2018 09:26:37 pm
That's so sad about hearing such heartless words from a loved one :( Hurray for you for forging ahead regardless! Thanks for sharing the encouraging advice!
Holly Bargo
2/27/2018 02:30:03 pm
I like to think that stubbornness is a virtue. Comments are closed.
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