He talked about credibility--the credibility that comes from gaining a university degree. After four years (or more, if you were me) you obtain a degree. A lot of work is put into schooling. I know far too well. I spent many hours sitting in the math lab. Lots of hours writing papers. And tons of hours sitting in classrooms. But I did it! Now I've got a piece of paper that says I have a Bachelor in Anthropology degree.
Well, how does this relate to writing? As writers, we want that credibility that comes from having one of our books or all of them published. But is that really where credibility comes from? Ok, yes it is...sort of. But, it doesn't have to be.
We are credible because we write! Just deciding to scribble down a story and finishing chapter after chapter is credible. Just because you're not published doesn't mean that you aren't an author.
Yet, obtaining publish-dom is a fantastic goal to keep you typing out words. Having a book on the shelves at the local bookstore or online definitely will make you jump up and down, giggling up a storm (ok, that's what I will do). By all means, don't let not getting that big six figure book deal keep you from thinking you are a credible.
Just keep going. Keep writing. And be happy along the way. You are writer and that makes you AMAZING! An inCREDIBLY amazing person.
PS: Orson Scott Card also said that it doesn't matter where you get your education, be it Harvard or a community college or through reading books or community classes. It's the fact that you have learned something that matters.
The fact that you write is all that matters! And by golly, I've learned so much more about writing by writing a book than I EVER did during my college degree. This time could very well count as a masters program. :D
I hope this has made sense. Perhaps, I've just been blabbing.
Anyway --> *hugs* Especially if you are struggling right now with your writing. :)
Writing. Jewels.
What a great affirmation. Yes, we are writers because we write. Chasing writing for the pursuit of publication to validate us will most certainly lead to burn out. Writing because it is our passion is much more satisfying and true. Hopefully the two intersect? ;)
ReplyDeleteHopefully, the two passions will intersect. Great thought. Thanks for stopping by, Julie.
DeleteHe's a smart man about this. I agree. Study, learn, and do it. And then go through the process some more.
ReplyDeleteIt is an endless process, isn't it. But amazing, too!
DeleteI agree, learning is what's important, and writing will make us writers.
ReplyDeleteWriters write. That's what we do. I've learned a ton a long the way. It is a brilliant path to undertake.
DeleteSmart man - and a great attitude to have! Besides, it's not the end result, it's the journey.
ReplyDelete"It's a musical journey" as Larry Mullin Jr would say. haha Probably makes no sense at all unless if you've seen Rattle and Hum. *giggles* Anyway, random thought there. Writing is a magical (not musical) journey with its ups and downs but amazing all the same.
DeleteCard is the man! I'm glad you got to hear him speak, and thanks for sharing his thoughts with us (I just joined the IWSG and needed to hear this myself). :)
ReplyDeleteYay for a new IWSG member! Woot.
DeleteGreat words of advice! I agree--you are a writer if you write.
ReplyDeleteAllison (Geek Banter)
Let's get on the rooftops and scream until our throats sting--> "I'M A WRITER!"
DeleteThanks for stopping by Allison.
<3 <3 <3
ReplyDelete<3 <3 <3 right back atcha, Morgs!
DeleteEach time I research a novel, I feel as if I've taken at least a couple of courses. And I've written enough words to reach from coast to coast, I think. Writing is an amazing journey - one that I love dearly. Great post.
ReplyDeleteSo true! Writers are educated people, for sure. And the thing is that we also educate ourselves when we read books. I tell you, I learn so much from reading for fun. Other authors books are like textbooks. Pretty amazing, huh?
DeleteThanks for this Julia.
ReplyDelete"Just keep going. Keep writing. And be happy along the way." It's the last part I have problems with sometimes. But thanks for sharing and for the reminder, I need it! (:
You're welcome! I need to eat my words...it depends on the day. Keep writing, friend! :D
DeleteIt's definitely a case of the "University of Life" being best when it comes to writing. Nothing like banging out words again and again to improve. That said, I've had a great education just from reading blogs! No matter what stage we're at, we can always learn from each other. That's a great thing to have. :)
ReplyDeleteWell said, Nick. Social networking is where I started to REALLY understand how to write and the writing industry. It is brilliant. Gees, I'm talking with you, someone clear in a different country. It amazes me. Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteI agree. Just being a writer, whether you're a beginner or multi-published, is amazing. Writing isn't easy. It takes heart and bravery as well as a lot of other things, too. Great post, Julia. :)
ReplyDelete