Lessons for the novice writer

What kinds of skills does a “novice” Writer need?

Regular readers will know that I’ve consistently (more or less) made a distinction between a “writer” and a “Writer” – the former being anyone who commits pen to paper (fingertip to keyboard), the latter, capitalized denotation reserved either for those making a living at writing, or with a superior command of the craft.

A “writer” needs a pen and paper (or pencil, or laptop ... whatever).  Being a writer is largely a question of opportunity.

A “Writer,” on the other hand, needs discipline, courage, a strong work ethic, introspection, resilience and a passing acquaintance (at minimum) with inspiration and even genius.

A Writer tends to be experienced, both a writing and at Life.  More than an observer, more than even a trained observer, the Writer is an avid observer ... to the point of voyeurism.

A Writer is critical.  He looks at the human condition, yes, observes and notates.  But he also analyzes the verity of his observation, and the accuracy and completeness of his notation (i.e., he’s an Editor, Copyreader, Proofreader and Critic).

A Writer is realistic – knowing that 500 words do not magically appear on the page each day ... knowing that 2,500 will magically appear on some days ... knowing that 25 words is sometimes better than 250 – even if you really liked the 225 that you have to expunge for reasons of clarity, digression, budget, space or general principal.

A Writer knows how to spell “principle,” and how to spell “principal,” and the difference betwixt the two that shall inevitably meet inside the brain and effect confusion.

A Writer know how to spell “affect,” and uses the word with good effect, eschewing all affectation, no matter how vexingly it affects his creativity.

A Writer knows which words have an impact on the course of human events, and which impact events adversely – no matter how tempting it may be to utilize “impact” as a transitive verb.

“Lessons” in this blog, will generally have practical application to the writer/Writer’s craft.  This lesson has only a smattering of such practical application.

But until the “writer” begins to care about these kinds of issues, he will forever remain uncapitalized. 

Next: Lessons for the would-be Writer

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