me as a writer essay

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How to Write About Yourself in a College Essay | Examples

Published on September 21, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

An insightful college admissions essay requires deep self-reflection, authenticity, and a balance between confidence and vulnerability. Your essay shouldn’t just be a resume of your experiences; colleges are looking for a story that demonstrates your most important values and qualities.

To write about your achievements and qualities without sounding arrogant, use specific stories to illustrate them. You can also write about challenges you’ve faced or mistakes you’ve made to show vulnerability and personal growth.

Table of contents

Start with self-reflection, how to write about challenges and mistakes, how to write about your achievements and qualities, how to write about a cliché experience, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Before you start writing, spend some time reflecting to identify your values and qualities. You should do a comprehensive brainstorming session, but here are a few questions to get you started:

• What are three words your friends or family would use to describe you, and why would they choose them?
• Whom do you admire most and why?
• What are the top five things you are thankful for?
• What has inspired your hobbies or future goals?
• What are you most proud of? Ashamed of?

As you self-reflect, consider how your values and goals reflect your prospective university’s program and culture, and brainstorm stories that demonstrate the fit between the two.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Writing about difficult experiences can be an effective way to show authenticity and create an emotional connection to the reader, but choose carefully which details to share, and aim to demonstrate how the experience helped you learn and grow.

Be vulnerable

It’s not necessary to have a tragic story or a huge confession. But you should openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to evoke an emotional response from the reader. Even a cliché or mundane topic can be made interesting with honest reflection. This honesty is a preface to self-reflection and insight in the essay’s conclusion.

Don’t overshare

With difficult topics, you shouldn’t focus too much on negative aspects. Instead, use your challenging circumstances as a brief introduction to how you responded positively.

Share what you have learned

It’s okay to include your failure or mistakes in your essay if you include a lesson learned. After telling a descriptive, honest story, you should explain what you learned and how you applied it to your life.

While it’s good to sell your strengths, you also don’t want to come across as arrogant. Instead of just stating your extracurricular activities, achievements, or personal qualities, aim to discreetly incorporate them into your story.

Brag indirectly

Mention your extracurricular activities or awards in passing, not outright, to avoid sounding like you’re bragging from a resume.

Use stories to prove your qualities

Even if you don’t have any impressive academic achievements or extracurriculars, you can still demonstrate your academic or personal character. But you should use personal examples to provide proof. In other words, show evidence of your character instead of just telling.

Many high school students write about common topics such as sports, volunteer work, or their family. Your essay topic doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, but do try to include unexpected personal details and your authentic voice to make your essay stand out .

To find an original angle, try these techniques:

• Focus on a specific moment, and describe the scene using your five senses.
• Mention objects that have special significance to you.
• Instead of following a common story arc, include a surprising twist or insight.

Your unique voice can shed new perspective on a common human experience while also revealing your personality. When read out loud, the essay should sound like you are talking.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

First, spend time reflecting on your core values and character . You can start with these questions:

However, you should do a comprehensive brainstorming session to fully understand your values. Also consider how your values and goals match your prospective university’s program and culture. Then, brainstorm stories that illustrate the fit between the two.

When writing about yourself , including difficult experiences or failures can be a great way to show vulnerability and authenticity, but be careful not to overshare, and focus on showing how you matured from the experience.

Through specific stories, you can weave your achievements and qualities into your essay so that it doesn’t seem like you’re bragging from a resume.

Include specific, personal details and use your authentic voice to shed a new perspective on a common human experience.

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15 Tips for Writing a College Essay About Yourself

What’s covered:.

• What is the Purpose of the College Essay?
• How to Stand Out Without Showing Off
• 15 Tips for Writing an Essay About Yourself
• Where to Get Free Feedback on Your Essay

Most students who apply to top-tier colleges have exceptional grades, standardized test scores, and extracurricular activities. How do admissions officers decide which applicants to choose among all these stellar students? One way is on the strength of their college essay .

This personal statement, along with other qualitative factors like teacher recommendations, helps the admissions committee see who you really are—the person behind the transcript. So, it’s obviously important to write a great one.

What Is the Purpose of the College Essay? 

Your college essay helps you stand out in a pool of qualified candidates. If effective, it will also show the admissions committee more of your personality and allow them to get a sense of how you’ll fit in with and contribute to the student body and institution. Additionally, it will show the school that you can express yourself persuasively and clearly in writing, which is an important part of most careers, no matter where you end up. 

Typically, students must submit a personal statement (usually the Common App essay ) along with school-specific supplements. Some students are surprised to learn that essays typically count for around 25% of your entire application at the top 250 schools. That’s an enormous chunk, especially considering that, unlike your transcript and extracurriculars, it isn’t an assessment of your entire high school career.  

The purpose of the college essay is to paint a complete picture of yourself, showing admissions committees the person behind the grades and test scores. A strong college essay shows your unique experiences, personality, perspective, interests, and values—ultimately, what makes you unique. After all, people attend college, not their grades or test scores. The college essay also provides students with a considerable amount of agency in their application, empowering them to share their own stories.

How to Stand Out Without Showing Off 

It’s important to strike a balance between exploring your achievements and demonstrating humility. Your aim should be to focus on the meaning behind the experience and how it changed your outlook, not the accomplishment itself. 

Confidence without cockiness is the key here. Don’t simply catalog your achievements, there are other areas on your application to share them. Rather, mention your achievements when they’re critical to the story you’re telling. It’s helpful to think of achievements as compliments, not highlights, of your college essay.  

Take this essay excerpt , for example:

My parents’ separation allowed me the space to explore my own strengths and interests as each of them became individually busier. As early as middle school, I was riding the light rail train by myself, reading maps to get myself home, and applying to special academic programs without urging from my parents. Even as I took more initiatives on my own, my parents both continued to see me as somewhat immature. All of that changed three years ago, when I applied and was accepted to the SNYI-L summer exchange program in Morocco. I would be studying Arabic and learning my way around the city of Marrakesh. Although I think my parents were a little surprised when I told them my news, the addition of a fully-funded scholarship convinced them to let me go. 

Instead of saying “ I received this scholarship and participated in this prestigious program, ” the author tells a story, demonstrating their growth and initiative through specific actions (riding the train alone, applying academic programs on her own, etc.)—effectively showing rather than telling.

15 Tips for Writing an Essay About Yourself 

1. start early .

Leave yourself plenty of time to write your college essay—it’s stressful enough to compose a compelling essay without putting yourself under a deadline. Starting early on your essay also leaves you time to edit and refine your work, have others read your work (for example, your parents or a teacher), and carefully proofread.

2. Choose a topic that’s meaningful to you 

The foundation of a great essay is selecting a topic that has real meaning for you. If you’re passionate about the subject, the reader will feel it. Alternatively, choosing a topic you think the admissions committee is looking for, but isn’t all that important to you, won’t make for a compelling essay; it will be obvious that you’re not very invested in it.

3. Show your personality 

One of the main points of your college essay is to convey your personality. Admissions officers will see your transcript and read about the awards you’ve won, but the essay will help them get to know you as a person. Make sure your personality is evident in each part—if you are a jokester, incorporate some humor. Your friends should be able to pick your essay from an anonymous pile, read it, and recognize it as yours. In that same vein, someone who doesn’t know you at all should feel like they understand your personality after reading your essay. 

4. Write in your own voice 

In order to bring authenticity to your essay, you’ll need to write in your own voice. Don’t be overly formal (but don’t be too casual, either). Remember: you want the reader to get to know the real you, not a version of you that comes across as overly stiff or stilted. You should feel free to use contractions, incorporate dialogue, and employ vocabulary that comes naturally to you. 

5. Use specific examples 

Real, concrete stories and examples will help your essay come to life. They’ll add color to your narrative and make it more compelling for the reader. The goal, after all, is to engage your audience—the admissions committee. 

For example, instead of stating that you care about animals, you should tell us a story about how you took care of an injured stray cat. 

Consider this side-by-side comparison:

Example 1: I care deeply about animals and even once rescued a stray cat. The cat had an injured leg, and I helped nurse it back to health.

Example 2: I lost many nights of sleep trying to nurse the stray cat back to health. Its leg infection was extremely painful, and it meowed in distress up until the wee hours of the morning. I didn’t mind it though; what mattered was that the cat regained its strength. So, I stayed awake to administer its medicine and soothe it with loving ear rubs.

The second example helps us visualize this situation and is more illustrative of the writer’s personality. Because she stayed awake to care for the cat, we can infer that she is a compassionate person who cares about animals. We don’t get the same depth with the first example. 

6. Don’t be afraid to show off… 

You should always put your best foot forward—the whole point of your essay is to market yourself to colleges. This isn’t the time to be shy about your accomplishments, skills, or qualities. 

7. …While also maintaining humility 

But don’t brag. Demonstrate humility when discussing your achievements. In the example above, for instance, the author discusses her accomplishments while noting that her parents thought of her as immature. This is a great way to show humility while still highlighting that she was able to prove her parents wrong.

8. Be vulnerable 

Vulnerability goes hand in hand with humility and authenticity. Don’t shy away from exploring how your experience affected you and the feelings you experienced. This, too, will help your story come to life. 

Here’s an excerpt from a Common App essay that demonstrates vulnerability and allows us to connect with the writer:  

“You ruined my life!” After months of quiet anger, my brother finally confronted me. To my shame, I had been appallingly ignorant of his pain. 

Despite being twins, Max and I are profoundly different. Having intellectual interests from a young age that, well, interested very few of my peers, I often felt out of step in comparison with my highly-social brother. Everything appeared to come effortlessly for Max and, while we share an extremely tight bond, his frequent time away with friends left me feeling more and more alone as we grew older.

In this essay, the writer isn’t afraid to share his insecurities and feelings with us. He states that he had been “ appallingly ignorant ” of his brother’s pain, that he “ often felt out of step ” compared to his brother, and that he had felt “ more and more alone ” over time. These are all emotions that you may not necessarily share with someone you just met, but it’s exactly this vulnerability that makes the essay more raw and relatable. 

9. Don’t lie or hyperbolize 

This essay is about the authentic you. Lying or hyperbolizing to make yourself sound better will not only make your essay—and entire application—less genuine, but it will also weaken it. More than likely, it will be obvious that you’re exaggerating. Plus, if colleges later find out that you haven’t been truthful in any part of your application, it’s grounds for revoking your acceptance or even expulsion if you’ve already matriculated. 

10. Avoid cliches 

How the COVID-19 pandemic changed your life. A sports victory as a metaphor for your journey. How a pet death altered your entire outlook. Admissions officers have seen more essays on these topics than they can possibly count. Unless you have a truly unique angle, then it’s in your best interest to avoid them. Learn which topics are cliche and how to fix them . 

11. Proofread 

This is a critical step. Even a small error can break your essay, however amazing it is otherwise. Make sure you read it over carefully, and get another set of eyes (or two or three other sets of eyes), just in case.

12. Abstain from using AI

There are a handful of good reasons to avoid using artificial intelligence (AI) to write your college essay. Most importantly, it’s dishonest and likely to be not very good; AI-generated essays are generally formulaic, generic, and boring—everything you’re trying to avoid being.   The purpose of the college essay is to share what makes you unique and highlight your personal experiences and perspectives, something that AI can’t capture.

13. Use parents as advisors, not editors

The voice of an adult is different from that of a high schooler and admissions committees are experts at spotting the writing of parents. Parents can play a valuable role in creating your college essay—advising, proofreading, and providing encouragement during those stressful moments. However, they should not write or edit your college essay with their words.

14. Have a hook

Admissions committees have a lot of essays to read and getting their attention is essential for standing out among a crowded field of applicants. A great hook captures your reader’s imagination and encourages them to keep reading your essay. Start strong, first impressions are everything!

15. Give them something to remember

The ending of your college essay is just as important as the beginning. Give your reader something to remember by composing an engaging and punchy paragraph or line—called a kicker in journalism—that ties everything you’ve written above together.

Where to Get Free Feedback on Your College Essay 

Before you send off your application, make sure you get feedback from a trusted source on your essay. CollegeVine’s free peer essay review will give you the support you need to ensure you’ve effectively presented your personality and accomplishments. Our expert essay review pairs you with an advisor to help you refine your writing, submit your best work, and boost your chances of getting into your dream school. Find the right advisor for you and get started on honing a winning essay.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Myself as a Writer Essay

• February 2, 2023

Essay about Myself as a Writer

Introduction

I'm John Smith, and I'm a writer. Writing has been an essential part of my life since I was a child, and I am enthusiastic about it. I knew writing would be a large part of my life from an early age, and it has been a continual source of comfort, peace, and expression for me ever since. My writing career began with short tales and poems, but I've grown to include articles, essays, and even novels. Writing has allowed me to express my ideas and emotions on paper, and it has helped me make sense of the world around me. Writing has always been my escape from reality, an outlet for my deepest thoughts and feelings, and a way to make a big difference in the world. Writing has given me a voice and a method to express myself, and I hope to educate, inspire, and make a difference via my writing.

Body Paragraphs

The writing was my escape from the difficulties of everyday life when I was younger. I frequently get lost in the characters and scenarios I made up, and writing became a therapy. It helped me understand myself better by allowing me to analyze my ideas and feelings. I dealt with challenging situations and emotions via writing, and as a result, I emerged more robust and resilient. Writing has always been a haven where I can be entirely honest and authentic to myself without fear of judgment or condemnation.

Writing serves as an escape, and a means for me to make a difference in the world. Writing can shift people's perceptions, expose them to new ideas, and educate and inspire them. My writing aims to spread a message of hope, positivism, and empathy and help others see the world in a new light. Whether via my articles or fiction, I always attempt to express a message that will have a lasting influence on my readers.

I am continually striving to improve my writing, which is an art that can be developed and improved with practice and dedication. I am always reading and analyzing other authors' works, attending writing workshops and conferences, and engaging with other writers to benefit from their experiences. Writing is a collaborative art form, and I constantly seek methods to develop my talents and reach a larger audience. As a writer, I am devoted to learning and evolving, and there is always space for development.

Writing has also given me a feeling of direction and purpose. Through my writing, I've discovered a way to connect with others and make a difference in their lives. Writing can heal, unite people, and improve the world. Writing can make a difference, whether it is via sharing my personal experiences or creating fictitious worlds. It is through my writing that I hope to leave a lasting legacy.

Finally, writing has been an essential part of my life, shaping me into the person I am. It has provided me with a voice, an outlet, and a method to make a difference in the world. My writing path has been fraught with ups and downs, but I've always kept my interest. I constantly want to enhance my talents and reach a larger audience, and I am never content with my work. Writing has taught me much about myself, my beliefs, and my objectives. I've found consolation in the characters and tales I've created, and I've learned to deal with unpleasant emotions and situations via them. Writing has been my therapy and has helped me grow more robust and resilient.

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Introduce Yourself AS A WRITER

by Marianne Richmond | 219 comments

I have been a book author and artist for close to twenty years.  I have paid for my mortgage, groceries, vacations and braces with my self-generated income. I have sold a blessed two million copies of my words and pictures.

Marianne Richmond, 2012

And yet, until about five years ago, I stumbled through an introduction of my writing and my abilities.  It may have sounded something like this:

Interested person:  So, what do you do?

Me:  I write and illustrate children's books.

More interested person:  Wow—you do both parts.  You're a writer AND an artist!

Me:  Well… I'm not really an artist.  I mean, I AM but I've never been formally trained in art and well, I've just worked to create a style that matches my words.  And ya so… (head down, change subject, pick off nail polish).

This was not serving me well nor building anyone's confidence in me, including my OWN.

Today I want us to practice owning our GIFT and TALENT as writers.  Wholeheartedly.  Even if we're not generating ANY income from it.  Talent and ability are not always cash-making but are still real and worth our belief.

How to Confidently Introduce Yourself and Your Abilities

Ready to introduce yourself with pizazz. Here are five steps to do it:

1. State your name and your craft.

“Hi, I'm Marianne, and I'm a children's book writer and illustrator.”

Or “Greetings!  My name is Joe and I'm a novelist.”

Or “Yo.  I'm Paisley and I'm a poet.”

Stand tall.  Make eye contact.  Do not justify, downplay or explain.

2. Tell people about your current audience.

(Even if it's just an audience of one!).

Share what you write about, or for whom you aspire to write.  “I currently am working a series of nature poems but hope to soon begin working on a young adult Vampire novel.”

3. Add a thought or two on how you hope to grow in your chosen area.

“I am not yet published but am seeking a literary agent.”

Or “I am contemplating the self-publishing route while researching various publishers.”

Or “I am a nurse by day and a novelist by night.”

4. Stifle the critic in your head.

You know that one who, on cue, is saying something like, “Ha!  That'll be the day.  You only have three pages written!  If you were a real writer, you'd be published by now.”

Tell him to be quiet. You're too busy being a writer.

5. Revel in it.

Respond to the interest and admiration that is sure to come your way after such a confident presentation of your words AND your worth!

How do you introduce yourself as a writer?

Do you ever downplay your talent as a writer?  Self-critique to save someone else the trouble? For today's practice, introduce yourself and your work in the comments section in the most confident, self-assured way possible!  In addition to practicing this important skill, we will all get to learn a little more about one another!  Who knows?  Maybe you'll find a kindred spirit in the crowd.

Marianne Richmond

I'm Marianne Richmond—writer, artist and inspirationalist. My words have touched millions over the past two decades through my children's books and gift products. Basically I put love into words and help you connect with the people + moments that matter. You can find me on my website , Facebook , and Twitter (@M_Richmond21).

219 Comments

Hello. My name is Benjamin Clifton, and I write flash fiction and short stories. I plan on creating an anthology and will most likely keep it all to myself. One day, I’d like to delve into the craft of writing novels, maybe even write a series.

This is my latest project:

I woke up one morning with a feeling inside of my stomach. A pain. It felt like there was a knife, wriggling around within my insides, just trying to force its way to my heart. The problem was that it was lost in the maze of my stomach and intestines. All of the pain came in the flash of a moment; I woke up screaming. First was screaming. Second was puking. I ran to the bathroom across the hall. The family pictures hung in what my mom would call a ‘purposeful masterpiece,’ were a blur as I ran faster than those African guys who run away from lions for fun. I sat hunched over the white toilet that used to be shinier than any of the teeth belonging to those celebrities in Hollywood. It turned out to be not-so-shiny when I was done with it. I looked at my puke swirling around in the toilet in a pensive manner. That was, in between puking, gags and lurches. Why is it red? I remember thinking, I didn’t have any spaghetti recently… Salsa? No…

Needless to say, my mom took me to see a professional. She took me to a hospital, actually (yeah, it was that bad). I remember I had to stay sitting in one of those beds with a puke tray near me at all times. A male nurse, nicest guy ever, held the tray as my hands trembled. A string of something came out of my mouth as I vomited again. I could have sworn it was my small intestine, but I guess it was just mucus. He patted my back when I would choke and gave me comforting words when I finished each of my episodes.

That’s a little gross and disturbing, but interesting at the same time.

Benjamin, you are a passionate writer, a true gentleman, and an creative extraordinaire. Let me know when your novel is done so I can trade or buy it!

Ha. Yeah, it has a purpose. As I was first writing it, I myself was grossed out. I wanted to change it, but I decided that it’s necessary for the finished product.

Benjamin: I am blown away by your descriptive writing. I would be curious to find out more about this story. Keep up the great work!!

Well thanks! “Blown away,” huh? That kills me. In a good way. Thank you.

I’m asking you, Benjamin, please please please do not keep it all to yourself. People want to hear what you have to say; don’t you ever forget that. To the piece that you presented here: great descriptions. You have a knack for description. Knowing that you are well capable of providing a great description, I might suggest holding back just a little bit. Save the cream filling for when it’ll be most appreciated. Here you have two paragraphs of little to no story. Can I make a suggestion? Find out what else you’re good at. Practice your dialogue. Practice your action. Create characters. You’ll surprise yourself. I’m sure of it 😉

Ah… My first “criticism” for my descriptions. Just kidding. It was well-taken.

First, thank you. Second, thank you. I’ve always wanted to know what I was good at in writing. I always dreaded descriptions, but ever since this semester at college, when we were forced to write a paper pretty much purely based on descriptions (it had a plot, we just were supposed to write it as descriptive as possible), I started to realise I was getting better at it. Thanks for the comment and the encouragement!

Did you have fun writing that paper? Maybe you could do something similar (perhaps on a smaller scale, or whatever size suits you) with your action sentences, dialogue, exposition. Try writing a page or so using only dialogue. Or action. You get it. Actually, I think I might do that. Thanks for the idea!

Ha! I think you mostly gave yourself the idea if it’s all action or dialogue. Thank you for the idea. I’ll definitely have to explore.

I’ve thought about doing similar focused practices.

I certainly downplay myself as a writer, especially because I’ve had no formal training. I self-published a novella recently, but I’ve only sold copies to my family members. It doesn’t make me feel quite like an author…yet. So let’s give this self-assurance thing a try.

Hi! I’m Alicia Rades and I’m a freelance writer, blogger, and author. I’ve been working on building a blog over the last several months that gives tips to writers by using my experiences in freelance writing over the past three years at TheWritingRealm.com. I recently published my first novella that explores the idea of an afterlife, and I also just finished the first draft of my first full-length novel, which is a New Adult Contemporary. I plan to send this into traditional publishers once I iron out all the kinks. I have a passion for writing and dream that someday I’ll reach a wider audience and show what I can really offer.

Good luck! I’ve yet to sample your novella. It certainly looks interest. I don’t know if you though of this, but you are selling it at a price that other indie writers are selling their novels. This might be part of the reason no one is trying it.

I don’t know. I haven’t published anything yet, so I’m not probably the most reliable source of info or advice.

I’m learning that self-publishing is almost as much work as traditional publishing because the author does all of the marketing. There is a lot of good info out there about to market self-published books. In his book, The Success Principles, Jack Canfield named several ways he marketed his earlier books (pg. 179). It made me realize that there was some real work to do after I gave/sold copies to my family members.

Yeah, I think my biggest problem is marketing. I’m not entirely sure where to start, nor do I have a ton of money to put into it.

Hi Alicia! Check out Dan Blank’s site for some great tips on marketing for writers. I love his weekly newsletter! http://wegrowmedia.com/

Awesome. Thanks for the reference.

I did read this and did make a reply… Weird. Anyway.

I had said something along the line of your novella looked interesting, but it was priced at about the same as most indie novels. But, I’m not published or anything, so it is just an observation. You really want to get your name and writing style out there with your first publication, raising money comes as a bonus. Good luck, Alicia.

That’s actually really good advice. I’m just dipping my toes in the water, so that makes a lot of sense. Thank you.

I’d love to read your novella! Where can I find it?

Where the Darkness Ends

Thanks for sharing

Hi Alicia! When I read your self-assured description, I see a woman with a LOT of writing experience! And who has much to offer! I would love to read your writings on the afterlife. Losing both my parents in one year has caused me to ponder this very topic!!

Thanks! My novella is a work of fiction, so you might not find it useful, but you might like the story. Thanks for the encouragement. This was a great post. You can find my book here: http://www.amazon.com/Where-Darkness-Ends-Alicia-Rades/dp/1492743585/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380059294&sr=8-1&keywords=alicia+rades

Ah, ignore my question in comments above. I see it here.

HI Alicia, I’ve enjoyed your posts … (we met on Story Cartel or Writepractice… I remember that article about Oxford Comma’s). I’d love to read your novella that explores the idea of an afterlife since I’m playing around with one about parallel lives. Can’t seem to find a place to download it on your blog?

Nice! Well done…

Hi my name is Kay, and I’m a non-published (yet) fiction writer. I have two pieces that I am currently working on, one a Romance/Suspense and the other a Romance/Paranormal. When they are finished I am looking at e-publishing to begin with, then, who knows. This piece is so timely, thanks so much for sharing it again.

Hi Kay — thanks for sharing! After e-publishing will come e-marketing, no doubt! 🙂

Level-headed and achievable goals. I think you’ll find those goals met if you take the steps to make it happen.

Hello, my name is James Hall. I love being a writer. It is the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had. Call it intuition, but one day, my fantasy books are going to be read all over the world. But, I try to not let that premonition distract me from writing for fun or writing for me. I stick to level-headed goals and achievable dreams.

I would love for you to check out my latest work on my blog . Look under the heading “Writing” and you can find an assortment of my short stories and current novel projects. My first fantasy novel is over halfway written now. You can find an introduction to my novel under Writing -> Greybo: A Dwarven Legend.

I appreciate your comments on this blog as well as your encouragement.

Thanks for introducing us to what lights you up! I will meander on over…

How’s that meandering on over doing?

If you are more fond of introductory-sized stories that demonstrate my writing, you might look at my flash fiction stories .

James, I feel like I know you from all your insights, comments and caring on this forum. I admire your fire for writing and your desire to be read all over the world and I am going to believe that with you. Since I live in Canada, you have a start with this fan outside of the US.

Your heartfelt comment is just that, felt by this heart. Thank you!

I love that you embrace your writership so easily James. Something I must learn.

You can make it anywhere you believe you can. If it is possible for me to be a best seller, I will only achieve that if I believe I can.

You’ve got a reader for life in me, James.

Between you are Margaret, I know I got a good readership. 🙂

I just took a look at your site, James. I love the old library background with the dragon header. I’m looking forward to reading more of your work.

Feelings + people + moments that matter = Marianne Richmond’s keys to being a great and inspirational author!

How’s that?

My life’s work, James! 🙂

Keep up the good work.

Do you have a collection of your stories, playes, or short stories floating out on the internet somewhere? If so, feel free to post a link to that somewhere, so I can take a sneak peek!

Greetings! My name is Emma, and I write. Simple as that. Do I hope and plan to be on the New York Times Bestselling list? Today, no. (I’m still a teenager!) I write because I love creating worlds and people. I love a blank page in front of me, and I like writing whatever comes to my head. That’s bad, because I jump from one story to the next, like a bee chasing after pollen, and never finish anything, but I’m practicing dedication. My only audience is my writing group, which consists of my closest friends. But, yes, I AM A WRITER.

Well hello there! My name is Jevonnah Ellison and I am a Leadership Coach and Writer. My first book, The Journey to Excellence, will launch early next year. Stay posted for details and sign up for a free gift at http://ladyjevonnahellison.com

Who wouldn’t want to take that journey? Thank you so much Jevonnah!

I am William Teague a writer and an artist. I’m currently finishing a seedy literary novel called ‘Staggering Past the Bone-Yard’ and will soon be searching for a literary agent to represent me. Another story I’m working on is ‘Jack Kilroy and the Roller Derby Girl’. I recently had an installation at my favorite café of my Abstract Expressionistic paintings during the month of September where I sold two pieces.

… And do you have a link for us to see any of your paintings?

Unfortunately I’m not very computer savvy. But I am working on it and hope to have a website soon!

I second that, I love art and paintings that I can see. You need to create a portfolio!

Would love to read your material, William. You seem very much into expressing yourself through creativity, and I’m sure your writing is no different. I, too, am a man of many colors and arts. 🙂

My name is Robert Nielsen, and I’m a writer. I’m currently working on an alternate-history novel called ‘Armageddon’s Clock,’ set during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and combining two of the most important events of the early 1960’s–the Cuban Missile Crisis itself and the assassination of President Kennedy, which in reality occurred in November of 1963. I am still looking at all options in regard to publishing, including e-publishing and traditional publishers, but the manuscript is still raw and unpolished. I am hoping someday to see my book on shelves of bookstores.

Hi Robert! You certainly ARE a writer, given voice to such an important time in history.

Hi, Marianne!

I used to write mostly fanfiction, specifically Airwolf fanfiction (my favorite TV series growing up in the ’80s), and several of the people who read my stories suggested that I should try and write a book. And, given that military history, including the Cold War and Cuban Missile Crisis, is one of my main areas of interest, it seemed like a natural fit. The combination of the Crisis with the assassination of President Kennedy should give the conspiracy theorists something to chew on. 🙂 Thank you for your kind words. 🙂

Don’t ever give up and one day you will likely see your book(s) in a bookstore.

A humble man will know more than an arrogant man, for an arrogant man can learn nothing. Keep humble, keep learning!

James, That quote (“A humble man will know more than an arrogant man..”) Thank you for your kind words. 🙂

I love all things Kennedy and intellectual thrillers so it sounds like something I would like to read – when it comes out, I can say, “hey, I met him on The Write Practice…”

Margaret, I hope you get the chance to say that! 🙂 Thank you for your kind words. 🙂

Margaret, Thank you for your kind words! 🙂 Even though I was not alive during Kennedy’s time (I was born in 1970), due to my interest in history, specifically military history and the Cold War, I learned a lot about him during my research into the Bay of Pigs incident and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

I wonder how many “I met [them] on The Write Practice” I will come across. It is amazing to be so actively involved with talented people chasing their dreams.

So good. When I Started doing this, I went from being an amateur to a professional.

I love what you write about, Jeff. Your concept of embracing the InBetween is one I have spent many an hour pondering. So HARD for the achiever in me. I’m a fan and follower!

You are awesome, Jeff, and inspirational!

Hi, My name is Max. I am a Writer. My first book; *Breaking the Addiction Code will be out in Oct.2013. I write spiritual concepts in layman’s terms resulting in freedom.

Thank you Max! Freedom for … who? The reader? “I put into layman’s terms complex spiritual concepts that offer freedom to my readers.” Is this accurate?

Thanks for catching my incomplete thot. Yes, the reader, and those who they may help that are caught in some addiction.

Hi! I’m Sherma and I am a writer of Christian fiction and short stories with the odd article thrown in from time to time. My current audience is small but important because it gives me the motivation that I need to continually grow in the craft of writing. I have had a few short stories published in print and electronically. I have a blog that captures whatever is on my mind at the time. Feel free to stop by at http://www.faceinacrowd.wordpress.com .

I am growing into a novelist which is a great challenge. I look forward to publishing the series that is in my head and connecting with readers through the characters they meet in my novels. While I am writing, I am also investigating publishing options for new writers–traditional or self publish? I don’t know yet. This writing thing is a journey, and I am enjoying it.

I am IMPRESSED Sherma. Nice to meet you!

Thanks. I really enjoyed this post because it is very practical.

Publishing is filled with more questions than answers it seems. It all too often depends on the book, genre, and specifics. I wish you luck on your journey. What would you be most proud of your blog? Share a link to a favorite work of yours.

Blogs are for connecting with people. I’d feel my blog has a chance if I affected people through it. http://faceinacrowd.wordpress.com/2013/06/14/a-tribute-to-small-efforts/

quite=quiet

Saw that and tried to edit… but need to get Joe to do it. Thanks!

I try not to do this, but I still have my shy moments. Let’s give this a try!

Hello all, my name is Justine Manzano – I am currently working on revising an Urban Fantasy Novel and a Romantic Comedy Novel. I have several short stories making the submission rounds, and I’m working on outlines for future novels. I also run my own blog at justinemanzano.wordpress.com.

Thank you Justine. If we were at a dinner party, my next statement would be, “Oooh… tell me the plot of your Romance Novel. I’m quite happy with a fireplace, a cup of cocoa and some good chick lit!”

Thank you! This is usually where I would get nervous because I write strange things. Okay, let’s give it a go!

My romance novel is is about a recent divorcee who is trying to rebuild her life with the guidance of her imaginary friend – her favorite TV character.

You see. I write weird things. 😉

I love this idea, Justine! I am an empty nester who has been a single mom for 20 years – an imaginary friend would be awesome! Who would it be? Hmmmm…. John Boy from The Waltons? (he was a writer and so grounded) or Jack from Will and Grace? 🙂

Thank you! Hers is a military commander with a sarcastic sense of humor. Yours should be Jack from Will and Grace, I think he would be way more fun. 😉

Bill Nye the Science Guy.

Would love a link to some of your best works. I always like linking to good and short-winded samples of my work to introduce myself.

There are links to my published work at my blog: justinemanzano.wordpress.com. Unfortunately, I am not an extremely prolific short story writer, so there is only one published piece available for reading, aside from my semi-monthly blog posts. 🙂

Watch Out! I just saw one of my posts disappear from this topic, and couldn’t post on another. Refreshed, and it was gone. Weird stuff, backup your posts.

Hi, I’m Eva Rose and have been a writer most of my life. I write non-fiction short stories and poems and have been published in print and on-line. My goal is to publish a collection of stories which champion the inspiring side of life. We need something to lift us up after the news media! I haven’t decided on a title for my book or who my audience might be. I’ll need to be involved in social media to accomplish my goal. I don’t need to be on the best-seller list, just to know my writing has made a difference in someone’s life.

Did you delete your last post? because it kind of just up and disappeared.

I thought you had said something about like a blank page or something… anyway, if I’m mistaken, this was to be my response:

I hate a blank page in front of me. I love a full page in front of me.

Yes, to make a difference, that is a true and noble goal.

Did not delete last post and don’t think I mentioned a blank page but thanks for your comment!.

Hi Eva Rose – will be watching for that book. I think you are going to LOVE the ways your stories touch hearts and lives….

I love that you’ve the commitment to want to make a difference Eva Rose.

Keep working on those goals and lining up the steps to get there. You’ll make it!

My name is Christy and I am a writer. I have dabbled in writing off and on since middle school and have recently started taking writing seriously. I feel very fortunate to be able to stay at home, raise my kids, tend to my family and write. I don’t take one day for granted.

I am currently working on a novel – I supposed it could be considered Adult Contemporary. I am still learning the ropes and would like to build a reader base as well as get my work out to larger audiences. Eventually I would like to see my writing in print and be able to share my stories with people.

I am still very shy about sharing my writing. My husband is the only person who has read what I am currently working on. I like to write about real-life situations and I am a sucker for a great romance story 🙂

I am stepping out of my comfort zone by signing up for some writing classes as well as sharing my writing with this community of writers. I am very glad to be a part of this group.

You will gain so much from your writing group. I am currently in a Personal Writing class and I learn so much from reading my work aloud to a supportive audience. Yay for progress!

Well I hope your writing makes it out to larger audiences. I’m actually from a skinnier audience, but I still would love to be part of your audience. 😛

Share your stories. I’d love to hear them.

Thank you so much James!!

Good to know I’m not alone. Thanks for the permission and the ways to toot my own horn – especially in getting rid of that self-critic.

Hi, my name is Leslie, and I’m a writer and tutoring business owner. I write women’s fiction. I have published one novel and am working on a short story and second novel. I also maintain a creative writing blog at my website, http://www.LeslieQuigless.com .

Hi Leslie – I just checked out your website and watched your video on how to write back story. What a great idea to do that…

Hi Margaret, thanks so much!!

Good luck! I wonder how many men read women’s fiction.

I am writing and illustrating picture books and what a learning curve that is turning out to be. I also write young adult fiction and am about to attempt Nanowrimo challenge. When I started my blog a year ago I called myself an aspiring writer. After many posts, guest post, almost finished first picture book and linking up with many other passionate writers I now tell people that is what I am doing. This is a huge thing for me and I smile every time I hear my daughter say my mum is writing a book. It is not a question of if I will get published now, just a question of when my time is right.

You’re not aspiring if you’re DOING! Congrats on all your success!

You are a writer with aspirations.

I always make the distinction that I’m a writer, not an author, because I’ve yet to make any money from it. However, I have started introducing myself as ‘an award winning writer’ since I entered two pieces of fan-fiction [which a lot of people don’t count as ‘proper’ writing but still] into an international competition for the 20th anniversary of Quantum Leap. They were both shortlisted to the final 10 and ultimately placed 6th and 3rd! I have also started writing a series of children’s picture books – 4 so far – which I’m hoping to get published once I can find an illustrator to realize my vision for the stories.

Congratulations! An award-winning writer indeed! Look forward to seeing some of your published work 😀

Hi Helen – congrats on being an award winning writer! I struggle with calling myself an author too. I have sold 2 books to publishers (first one got dropped by Random House when the economy tanked in 2008) but when I say “author” people expect me to have a NYTimes book or some notoriety and it makes us both feel uncomfortable. Writer sounds friendlier and people understand my rust bucket better when I say that…

“…when I say ‘author’ people expect me to have a NYTimes book or some notoriety and it makes us both feel uncomfortable.” – This is so true! I’m an agented author whose debut is being shopped around, so I can at least add that in when I say “I’m a writer.” But I’m still getting used to leading with that response instead of my day job.

this is such an exiting time for you, Matthew – good luck! I hope your book finds the right home…

One of these posts I’m going to write about the whole NY Times list thing! It’s a game to be played and not the spontaneous discovery of amazing work.

Much congratulations on finishing in the top ten! Two pieces in the top ten–that’s something awesome. You have a lot to be proud of so far. I wish you the best of luck in moving forward.

Keeping writing. It is always nice to meet an award-winning writer.

Hi. I’m Gill. I’m an IT consultant by day and a writer by night, currently working on becoming a writer by day and an IT consultant not at all. I don’t write fiction or novels. I write true stories that make people smile, but also think about life from a different perspective. I write in different styles, from essays to rants or tips on grammar. Once I’ve gathered more experience and learned couple of more things about writing, I would like to become a freelancer writing for a newspaper, making more people smile, but also think about life from a different perspective.

http://myblognr3.wordpress.com/

Your dreams sound great! I’ve heard of so many people giving up their day job for writing, so it’s not that difficult of a goal to achieve.

Thank you for encouragement, Alicia. I’m looking forward to see how it all works out.

Hi Gill! Yours are exactly the kind of stories I love. I just listened to Delia Ephron speak at the Twin Cities Book Festival and her newest book is just that — true stories from her life that make people smile and nod in recognition. I think it’s called Mother, Daughter, Husband, Dog — or something along those lines…

Thank you for the great tip! I’m always looking for interesting books. True stories are my favorite kinds of stories to read, too. Somehow there are only a few fiction works that really resonated with me, and all of them are the famous classics. I recently got myself a book “House of Stone” by Anthony Shadi, a journalist who was reporting from Middle East. His descriptive language is fascinating. It is as if I were there myself. I hope to pick up some tricks from his writing.

Hi Gill, love that you’re doing something by day and writing by night. It makes me feel more like a “proper” writer to know others are also doing this juggling.

Thanks 🙂 But I’m sure there are lots of people out there managing it this way, much more than one might think. I won’t be surprised if they once do a survey and find out that it’s the majority.

Programmer by day, writer by night. I know where you are coming from. Add in a couple of rowdy kids, and you’ve got a recipe for great literature!

I write both non-fiction and fiction, both both are nothing more than a medium to send the same messages.

Way ahead of you, James. Was running out of ideas for my stories, so decided to get a kid. One hears they are a great source of inspiration. Will stick with one for now to see how it goes 🙂

Hi, I’m Victoria and I’m a writer! I’m a psychologist by day, but am currently working on my first full-length novel by night – a post-apocalyptic thriller. I’ve been writing since I think I COULD write. I had a primary school teacher who encouraged me, who I’ve always said my first book would be dedicated to. I have a collection of poems, short stories and novellas that I’m written since about the age of 9-10, and hope one day that I can make writing a full time career. I’d be extremely happy if a publisher picked up my book, but if not, I’m keen to self-publish as the bits that I’ve showed to people so far seem to have garnered a lot of interest!

Nice to meet you, Victoria! Post-Apocolyptic thrillers are especially interesting to me. Send a copy my way when it’s done! I’d love to read it.

Thanks, Benjamin! I’ll keep you up to date!

Pssh! Publishers would have to be dumb not to pick up your book, and that is just based on samples. Can’t wait to read it!

Aw, thanks, James! You’re always so encouraging!

Hi Victoria! I had a teacher who encouraged me too – in fact my very first paid story was in grade 4 when I won $5 for writing an essay about what I would wish for if I had one wish – back then $5 was a king’s ransom. I still remember how it felt when she announced my name…

So you are a child prodigy. I knew it!

not! I won the $5 but she wouldn’t print it in the school paper (printed with a mimeograph machine, so dating myself) The title was The Girl Who Didn’t Feel. My wish was to not feel anything – she was a good teacher who understood broken families and was protecting me 🙂

I’m anxious to be the first to read it! Your writing is so vivid and interesting, every time I see your thumbnail I’m anxiously reading it to find the latest heart-pounding excerpt.

Hello! My name is Erin and I’ve written for a lot of different things, including my college’s (now alma mater) newspaper, website, and 2 of its magazines. I’ve also had work published in my college’s literary magazine and one of those pieces won third place in the school’s annual writing contest, so I guess I’m an award-winning writer? I’ve also written for an archdiocesan newspaper and a website called Catholics on Call. I currently write about life for my own personal blog (erinmdaly.wordpress.com). I also write about self-love and self-worth for So Worth Loving, and I write about music for The Write Teachers. Right now I don’t think my blog audience is very big; it’s mostly friends, family, and my small handful of followers who read it. I’d say the audience I aspire to reach is young adults. I once thought that writing was my vocation, but now I’m not sure. As of right now I don’t have aspirations to make writing my full-time job, but I’d still like to dedicate more time to it and to develop a solid vision for my blog and to build an audience.

Keep writing and you’ll do great! Come on here every day and do the practice. I’ve seen my writing skills get better by tenfold. And I haven’t been around all that long. You must be a quite the writer to be award winning and published in college magazines…

Based on that you said you like to write about self-love and self-worth, which are excellent topics, I felt you might enjoy two short stories (< 1000 words each) that I wrote: To Autumn Reflections of a Mirror

I would love to read more of your writing. I’m sure I’ll find much of it inspiring.

Good luck with your blog! I hope you find more success.

For some reason it wouldn’t let me post a direct reply to Erin. Sorry Benjamin!

Unfortunately I’m not very computer savvy. But I am working on it and hope to have a website soon.

Good luck, would love to see it.

Thank you Marianne for such a grand idea to allow this community to get to know each other better. I have always wondered about the members of this group and their writing journeys!

My name is Margaret Terry and I am a storyteller. Writer. Speaker. Published author. (My son says I should write award winning author, so here you go, Patrick – my book Dear Deb won Best Life Stories and Best General Market Book at the Canadian Word Awards in June 2013) Dear Deb is my first book and it’s a book that was never planned. It’s a memoir via a collections of letters I sent a friend during the last six months of her life. As she was losing her life, I gave her pieces of mine. One letter at a time. The letters grew wings and traveled to over seven countries. After a promise to publish them in a book, I negotiated a deal sans agent with Thomas Nelson who published the book Oct. 2012. I was notified recently they just sold the rights to the second largest publishers in Russia. Makes me do the Snoopy happy dance to think Deb will be in Russia, a place she always dreamed of visiting.

I am currently working on a novel called “The Year of Letting Go” about a recently widowed woman who discovers she is bankrupt and decides to sell everything in her house to try to keep her house. (my house is for sale, BTW) As she sells pieces of art, jewellery etc, a piece of her past is revealed.

I am known for writing life stories about overcoming and persevering that are inspirational and give hope. I can’t imagine a greater gift than to be able to use my life experiences to do that (other than the gift of my sons who are often the stars of my stories)

I currently get paid to speak about the importance of sharing our stories, about vulnerability and how our wild and messy lives can be used to help each other. I am surprised and grateful for this exciting work as the book business doesn’t pay the mortgage…(yet!) I also enter short story writing contests which continue to pay the upkeep on my seventeen year old car that has only one working window.

I have dreamed of being a writer since I was six years old. To hold my first book in my hands the week I turned 60 felt like a great triumph and the most humbling experience of my life. No matter how hard the work, I know I didn’t do it alone…

To me, you are one of the most important people in this community. All these things you have written and accomplished are right there under your belt, and you continue to give and give and give helpful advice and the whole time I had no idea that I was hearing from a published author, a veteran in the field, an expert, more or less. Your humbleness is heartwarming and enviable! I love that Dear Deb will be in Russia. In a way, she will travel there. Thanks for being a part of this community. I hope you continue being a wonderful person and lend your helping hands to those of us who are trying to get where you are. 🙂

Karl, if you lived close by, I’d have to make you my new best friend – such kind words! Veteran, maybe (there are days I feel I’ve been to war and back), published yes, but expert? Naaaah. I think I’ve learned more about navigating this industry called publishing than I have about the craft of writing. It’s not an industry for the feint of heart that’s for sure and once we begin to swim in its waters, it takes so much energy that the writing can become secondary… Which is why I need this community as much as anyone here. We all stretch ourselves to terrifying limits by giving pieces of our hearts in our words and this forum provides a soft place to land and hands to help us get up again to keep going. I am writing fiction for the first time and don’t know what I’m doing most days. There are writers here who are talented fiction writers who help me just by allowing me to read their work (you are included in that group) Being able to comment is the bonus. It improves my own work each time I use my editing eyes to read yours. I feel so blessed to know you, Karl. Thanks so much for your comments, each and every one.

We feel blessed to know you and we love your comments as well. I think I can speak for all of us.

thx, James. Such kindness and care here. I’ve had many jobs in highly competitive industries and this is the only job I’ve had where colleagues truly care and invest in each others success .

You write about such moving and important topics. I can only hope that my fantasy novels say half the things your amazing stories tell. I would love to read your works. Is there anywhere I can find them?

Your mention of vulnerability reminded me of a speech I listened to in the Story Cartel Course. Sounds like you do work that is similar to Brene Brown’s .

I find you to be an inspiration and, yes, very much an expert.

I LOVE Brene Brown – her TED talks, amazing, her work and mission so important. I wish I could say I was in that league! I do some speaking to much smaller audiences,(most I’ve spoken to “live” is a few hundred) But the talks are a huge gift to me. I meet so many people who step up to share their story after they have heard mine – I love that part. The connection. Being in the same boat no matter where our journey began.

That is more than I’ve ever spoken to. I’ve had about 3000 hits on one my newest short story because WordPress decided to host it. Yet, I hate public speaking for the namely. I think it is so amazing that you make such an effort to motivate and inspire others. You are awesome, Margaret.

Looks like we have a mutual fan club, James. You give tons to this community with your comments/edits and conversations. And now, hosting a practice, so grand! I wish I could send you to something I’ve written but I don’t blog. I want to write books and blogging takes too much time away from book writing for me. Alas, so does speaking but the speaking pays and I love meeting people. BTW, I just read a good article on acting that I thought translates well for writers – might make a fun practice… http://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/2-mistakes-actors-make-auditions-and-how-overcome-them/

When I started my blog, it was going to simply be a dump of things I’ve written and nothing more. I get into it a little more now, but, if you let it, it can take some time. Mostly, though, all posts are things to do with practicing writing, tips, short stories, or updates on my book. You might be surprised at how optional WordPress is. Plus, I’ve made my blog look more like a website because that is what it is to me! I don’t have time to jack my jaw all day as others seem to.

I encourage you though to join the WordPress community and host some of your writing on there. It makes an excellent place to share your writing and a place to reference interested audiences.

I’m sure I wouldn’t be the only one from The Write Practice that would come to have a look-see.

If you decide to do so, let me know if you have (ANY) ANY (ANY) questions! I would LOVE the opportunity to make suggestions and help you out. Oh, and keep us posted if you decided to host your writings!

Come and Join WordPress Margaret! Share Your Story!

Great article. My self-worth might be fueled a little by success and feedback, but I’m a writer and I know it! Go all in and have a blast. Who cares what happens next! I write this story! This is MY story!

Thanks, great article. I worked for a large corporation as a writer/editor for nearly 20 years. Great pay but much of the stuff I did didn’t have a byline and even when it did I always felt inferior to those who were making “a name” for themselves. Now I’m retired and transitioning to authoring novels and it’s a struggle to overcome that inner critic, but I know I’ve got to do it if I expect to find any success in my new career. Rich Binkele

Don’t let that internal critique sabotage you! Write and write freely. Then, you might let the editor side take a peek. Then, and most importantly, share it with us!

“Hi, my name is Kim Smith. I write a blog about how nature can be a coping mechanism for sensitive people when they feel overwhelmed. I’m also working on a book on the same subject.”

How’s that? It felt scary just to type it. But as I recently wrote on my blog, it’s time to come out of the closet as a writer and really go for it. I’m proud to say that I attended my first writer’s conference a couple weeks ago and am preparing to participate in NaNoWriMo to explore fiction writing. I have so much I want to say about so many things that it’ll take me a while to determine what to focus on first. I’m glad to have found this community and look forward to giving and receiving support on our mutual journey.

(If you’re interested, here’s where I wrote about wanting to be a “real” writer: http://www.natureismytherapy.com .)

This sounds really interesting. It is horrifying to know that so many people are spending more and more time indoors. Work is indoors, fun is indoors. There is such wonder, inspiration, and calmness out in the woods than a city could ever offer. I’m saddened that so many take it for granted.

I followed your blog, I look forward to you sharing your fiction with us. Good luck with NaNoWriMo. I plan to attempt writing on my second fiction piece during NaNoWriMo. But, I’ll be starting a new programming job at the same time and deep into an online writing course at the Story Cartel (also hosted by Joe Bunting).

Thank you, James. I poked around on your blog a bit too, and I have to tell you that “Bystander Effect” was in my mind for days after I read it. Very powerful writing.

Thank you. It is so wonderful to hear comments like that. It never gets old, and always makes me want to go write more.

Marianne, this post brings back a very distinct memory. I was living on a sailboat in Marina del Rey, Los Angeles and working in Hollywood (on set, in camera & lighting and visual effects — lots of stories there…).

That was the very first time I told someone “I’m a writer” — one evening in the bar of the Marina del Rey Hotel, during a happy hour. I had not yet been published, but that didn’t matter. I knew it since I was six years old, and I knew it would come soon enough. And it did.

Don’t you love when specific memories are triggered? There are like long forgotten historical gems that we get to unearth!! I want to share coffee and hear all about LA…

Wouldn’t that be fun… where are you based Marianne? I don’t suppose you’re anywhere in the Bay Area (Cali)?

I wish that I was. Minneapolis for now. Hoping to make a change…

Well, how about then whichever one of us visits the other’s city first (or close enough), gives the other a heads up for coffee? 🙂

I’ve got to get around to reading some of your stuff. I’ve found you to be an excellent writer with tons of experience.

Hello there. My name is Audrey Chin and I’m a writer. The global version of my novel As the Heart Bones Break is being launched on November 2nd and you can get an advance review copy at http://www.audreychin.com for the next 2 weeks. The North Amercian version’s being marketed to publishers right now and and there’s a free giveaway now on Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18513417-as-the-heart-bones-break .

I’ve had other things published, so I know I’m a writer. But, I still feel shy about saying it. I’m not sure why. Perhaps when I was little, it wasn’t considered a proper vocation. Perhaps when I’m more widely read 😉

Interesting. I will have to read your book set in Vietnam. I’ve been thinking about writing a short story about the My Lai massacre.

Hello, Write Practice community! I’m Karl, much obliged. I write stories. My target audience is one that enjoys the darker side of things: ghosts, insanity, isolation, psychological insight ( why is this person crazy?), and generally distasteful truths. Since I’m always focused on “What comes next?” as far as my stories go, I do hope to make a living writing them. I don’t pay attention to the slim chances or the statistics. I’m going for it. I won’t stop. Writing stories and getting lost in the worlds I create is therapeutic and fun and exciting. I look at it this way: the more I write, the more people will read. And I’m tired of everybody constantly bent over a cell phone or iPad and always talking about “apps” and on the whole, literature is unappreciated by more people than ever before. I want to be able to say I contributed to the written word. I want to get so good at telling stories that somebody, someday, might read something I wrote and say, “That’s what I want to do.”

That’s what I want to do!

Mission accomplished! All is well that ends well. I can go home now. 😉

Enjoy your early retirement. You deserve it!

What the hell is an iPad anyway? OR

What the hell is literature about anyway?

Can you guess which side of the line I’m on?

Unappreciated! Write it anyway! I’d rather fail at publishing literary quality material than to become famous for publishing garbage. Put that in your Twitter and Smoke it!

I’m not sure I get what you are getting at. . .but. . .I don’t have a Twitter? And if Twitter came in a pack of twenty with a surgeon general’s warning on the box, I definitely wouldn’t smoke it!

I can’t tell if you are being completely facetious or not. I meant that classic literature and stuff is under-appreciated. I’m saying write something that you can be proud of. I wouldn’t honestly be proud to be the author of Twilight.

I think I couldn’t tell if you were being facetious, either, at first, but now I’m with you–yes, 100% The thing is, I smoke cigarettes, so what I was saying is that if Twitter was a cigarette I wouldn’t smoke it. Okay, we’re on the same team. Let’s show these kids what a good story should be. 😉

I’m an ex-smoker of ten years. Almost been a year without a cigarette. Too damn expensive!

And how. It’s on and off for me, though lately it’s been more “on.” 🙁

1. Don’t buy them. It’s hard smoke them if you don’t have them to smoke. 2, When I ran out of cigarettes, I switched to E-cigars. I had like 12 cartridges. Once they were gone, I quit.

Congratulations, too! I applaud your quitting.

wow, such a lovely goal, Karl! I believe you will get there too. “..insanity, isolation, psychological insight (why is this person crazy?)” Now I know why I am drawn to your work. I come from crazy people…writing is my therapy and one of the ways I make sense of my past.

That’s an awesome way to make sense of your past. I imagine it’s a good way for you to release some pressure so it doesn’t build up and blow out on a highway somewhere.

Hello my name is Ava Mauriello and I have just started down this career path. I do not have a blog, but I have a vlog on YouTube with a web series called Thorns and I have an independent film critique segment. Please check out my YouTube channel. I would love to hear your feedback! http://www.youtube.com/myavasavalot . My goals would be to have my channel become more successful (and higher budget haha!). Also I would love to write/direct short films and eventually independent features! I would love to be like Shane Carruth. I would like to make films independently without going the Hollywood route, so I can have more creative control.

-James how do you connect the word “blog” to your hyperlink? I would like to do that 🙂

Here is the link directly to the videos:

http://www.youtube.com/user/MyAvasavalot/videos

Sorry it took me so long to get to you on this!

Okay, it is a basic HTML anchor tag created like this (minus the brackets. The text goes in between the tags, the link goes inside of a quoted href attribute.

My YouTube Channel

I will have to check out your vlog sometime. Hope this helps.

Sorry, I’ve been so busy, I haven’t had a chance to catch up on my reading.

Creating a hyperlink like that is really easy. It is an HTML anchor tag done like so without the brackets.

What is placed between the tags becomes the visible text, what is placed in the HREF attribute is what the link is.

A link to YouTube

I’m interesting in looking at your vlog. I hope this helps.

Loved the quote, “Talent and ability are not always cash-making but are still real and worth our belief.”

I am a poet, speaker and author. I have to write, for me it’s like breathing.

Look forward to hearing more of your work!

It’s nice to see you, Anne. It has been wondrous reading your stories in the Story Cartel Course. I think it would be great to see you over here on The Write Practice is well.

Hi! My name is Anastacia Maness. I am a preacher’s wife, homeschooling mother of 6 blessings, and a writer. When I’m not busy chasing my blessings, I’m writing about them at http://rocksolidfamily.com .

My goal is to help build up and strengthen families. I’ve also written a book entitled “Don’t Quit: Build a Legacy of Commitment”. It is free to download (no email address required at least for now) at http://rocksolidfamily.com/dont-quit .

I am currently writing a 31 Day series on Building Commitment based upon my book and hope to turn it into an expanded edition.

Thanks for letting me practice. I really enjoy your posts. 🙂

Your writing sounds very informative and inspiration. I will have to check it out, especially since it is free.

Keep chasing those blessings!

I love your Rock Solid Family. Although it was a little short, it was thoughtful, truthful, and witty. I think my favorite line was do things for your wife before she asks. My wife is always asking, especially if I’m trying to write.

I’d recommend it to anyone and everyone. Good advice!

Thank you, James. I am glad you enjoyed it and got something out of it. I had a lot more I could have said but wanted it to be an easy quick read. I am planning to write a bigger book on the same subject but a little more in depth. Thanks for checking it out! 🙂

I’m a bit late, but hey there, I’m Elise White. I have loved writing and drawing all of my life. I work as a receptionist, but I enjoy do writing jobs and selling my artwork online ( http://wwww.piecesofelises.etsy.com ). I had my first book published last year, a guide on how to draw people http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009XDYHPE/ref=pe_355000_30273350_email_1p_11_ti#_ .

I am signed up for NaNoWriMo this year and my goal is to write my modern take on Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South, which will be titled On the Near North Side.

Hi Elise. Wow, I didn’t know you were so multi talented. Saw your Etsy page and really like your work – loved the initial/finger pendant, so creative.

Thanks for checking it out, Margaret!

You have amazing people-drawing skills. I can sketch anything, but I’ve always been terrible at drawing mental pictures.

Once again you’ve blessed me. By the way Jeff since I read your book I AM A WRITER!

Great timing for this post. I’ve got a couple books under my belt and working on the hard part-the sales. I often still stumble when asked what I do, but I said it without hesitation for some reason this morning in front of a group of strangers and well known author Jon Acuff. Crazy thing was it felt completely natural, not sure why it came so easily today, but I need to figure out how to duplicate it that’s for sure

Natural. It would be nice for it to sound natural. One of these days, it will.

Love this post! Making this change in how I talked about writing has been huge for me. I’m also enjoying scrolling through all the comments, such a lovely community. I’ve blogged about this same topic here: http://wp.me/p3kWXF-ci and here http://wp.me/p3kWXF-jb .

I agree Mary — what a wonderful group!!

Well, if no one else has, I would love to welcome you to this community. It is one of the best places for writers to become better writers.

Hello my name is Orlando Sanchez.I write martial arts and paranormal thrillers. My first book The Spiritual Warriors is currently available on Amazon. I’m currently working on my second book which is in beta reader stage, which I dread lol.

I have been writing for a few years now, but only over the last two years did I embrace the title-writer. It took a while, but once I did I started enjoying writing everyday and introducing myself(when asked) as a writer. Very nice meeting you all. Its great to find other writers out there who may be going through the same things I went and go through as an indie.

You can find my book at http://www.amazon.com/Orlando-SAnchez/e/B008T8MMQ0/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

Orlando Some of my thoughts, rants and learning experiences are on my blog: http://www.nascentnovel.blogspot.com

It is wonderful to have advice from such a seasoned writer!

Hi, my name is Kate, and I am a writer. Though I don’t have any books published (yet) I do write on several blogs and am currently searching for a literary agent!

Hey, that wasn’t too hard. 🙂

Did she mention that she is the best darN 13-year-old writer in the world?

I think your writing is magical, Kate. I’m so inspired and moved by your youthful dedication. I wish I had had that dedication at your age.

By the way, where can I find more of your writing, Kate? I’ve been anxious to read more of your prose. What I have read has been so poetic!

Aww, thank you so much, James. 🙂

Well, there’s my blog ( http://themagicviolinist.blogspot.com/ ), but if you go to my blog and look at the sidebar as you scroll down, you can see other blogs I’ve contributed to in the past, including links to all of my posts on The Write Practice. Hope this helps! 🙂 And thanks again!

The short bio on your website is awesome! Where the heck was I when I was 13?….Oh yeah, wishing I could grow up and become a writer! I used to spend days sketching and writing poems and shorts in my hard-cover, black, unlined sketch books. I wish I had known then that people actually made a living as a writer. When I grew up (still in the process) I studied computer science and got a programming job, so I can tell you straight up that GIFs are really, REALLY boring. 😛

Your writing voice is beautiful, and I LOVE the hearts all over your blog!!

Thank you so much! 🙂

Thank you Marianne! What a sweet comment. Hope to share the book soon. Getting excited!!!

I needed this post, like, two years ago! But, better late than never. Here goes….

Hi Everyone! My name is Tanya and I’m a writer, dreamer, inter-galactic super hero, and mother of two little aliens posing as human children. Whenever I’m not shipping one of these tiny beings to school, soccer, softball, piano, or the dentist, I write short stories and novels in all genres. I’m currently editing a modern day fantasy novel and finishing up the first draft of a supernatural middle grade story. In between I search for prompts online that usually turn into short stories on my blog, http://www.tanyamiranda.com . I also post my fantastic follies, some inspirational true stories, and log my rocky trek across the land of self publishing. Stop by my blog to read, comment, share, or just to say hi!

——–

There, that wasn’t so bad. But then again, if we actually met in person, I’d probably just say, “Hi. The name’s Tanya. I’m a writer damn it! Check out my blog tanyamiranda.com. Peace!”

Not sure which one is better. 🙂

LOVED this intro!!! I will certainly check out your blog!

Yay! Hope you like what you read Marianne.

I liked the first one better, but I cannot undermine the effectiveness of the last one, either! Share your story with ATTITUDE!

I, too, am not taken to any specific genre. I love to write whatever I want.

Hi James. Thanks and enjoy the shorts!

Hi Y’all, my name is Teia Collier, and I am writer. I’ve had a long journey to get here from playing politics on the Hill to event planning, but I am honored to call myself a writer. In the near future, I plan to publish a series of romances based on the rockstar women of Biblical history told through the lens of a modern perspective. Cheers to sharing the path.

Ancieno-Modern Romance. Sounds like the grounds for a new sub-genre. I’m glad to share the path to being a writer with you!

Hello, my name is Catherine. I am a writer as well as a high school student. I’ve been working on my very first novel, which integrates fantasy into a modern day setting. I decided to give writing my first book (this same novel) a try 3 years ago in the seventh grade, when I came up with an idea for a story that I myself was dying to read. However, I was naïve and believed that all there was to writing a book was sitting down and typing away at a computer screen. To my credit, I did end up with 9 chapters during that time period, but I soon realized that my male protagonist who was meant to be a caring, wise, brave hero to support my heroine came off as mysterious, slightly off putting, stalker-like figure. I ended that draft there. Eventually, I realized there was much more to writing than that. As I continued to read, develop my ‘voice’, and learn about writing in general, I grew more confident in my abilities and decided that I would not give up on my story that I believed should be told. Last year I received second place in a national essay contest and won $500 for it. I was floored. Now, I am taking AP English Language and Composition course as one of my classes and I have joined the newly formed Writing Club that I’m very excited to be a part of. Other than that I am a Highschool student with a dream and a passion I’m trying to put into action. Now if only my teachers would understand that my sole purpose in life is not completing homework- then I’d be set. The thing I really need right now is a kick in the pants.

Get out there and kick some ass or I’ll kick it for you!

Keep chasing those dreams, Catherine, keep writing with passion. The rest will follow, I promise.

Share your stories with us, we’d love to hear them!

Thank you James. I hope you don’t mind if I quote you (hopefully I’m not misquoting you), but “That heartfelt comment was just that- felt by this heart!” Thank you for all your encouragement! Eventually, you’ll get a taste of some of my stories through the practices- don’t you worry. 😉

Hello. I write because it makes me feel better in life. I am a writer.

Hi, I am Ana Spoke. I am currently writing a comedy/satirical novel – making fun of everything from “Fifty Shades of Gray” to “Fight Club” to Hollywood movies.

I am going to publish it one chapter at a time on my blog – http://anaspoke.com/

I have a lot of fun writing – in fact I giggle most of the time while writing or proof reading, which makes the process a joy. I hope I make other people laugh as well, which in the future may mean actually seeing my books in print. Thank you very much for helping out wannabes like me!

Ana Spoke and then there was humor.

Sounds like a great novel that would be filled with laughs from cover to cover. I will have to check it out!

I introduced myself as a writer once. Scared me to death.

This made me laugh!! But look — you survived! 🙂

Then, I became one…

Ah! Ah! Scary!

James thanks for the warm words! Yes seasoned like a dose of sriracha chased by some jalapenos! I’m still starting out in this writing life but its been a fun ride so far !

Hello! My name is Alani Keiser and I’m a writer. When I was a kid I wanted to be a fireman. Kidding! I really wanted to be a journalist. After leaving school I, unfortunately, could not get into University so I had to take to an office chair and do insurance (it was for the money). During the years I kept my passion going by writing poetry and songs… which I have won awards for. Fast forward to 15 years later… I resigned at my insurance job and started as a freelance writer. To date I have written articles, web content, press releases, poetry for children and I am now about to start writing my first novel (there’s just too much in my head and my dreams to keep on a leash). Much love xxx

Hi, I’m Olivia. I’m a writer. I publish a successful wellness newsletter every week with practices, affirmations, and journal prompts. I’m currently writing a guided journal and a children’s book. I aspire to become a self-help author.

I am looking for publications to continue publishing blogs and articles centering health and wellness. This was a lovely and helpful practice, I hate that I stumble when asked “what I do.” Honestly, I find it to be such a trivializing and demoralizing question!

oliviatokunbo,com

Greetings and salutations.I’m Jake, and I’m a prolific writer of six different series, I am also character designer.I’m currently preparing to write the next draft of the third book in my Dark Dayz saga. I hope to have it published early next year, then have the narrator for the series complete the audiobook version and have that published by March.I’ve published multiple books and audiobooks, but I am ready to find my cartel and market them, and future releases.

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Finding my Voice: My Journey as a Writer

September 6, 2024, nicole tacconi.

I never viewed myself as a writer. In fact, I remember I was quite opposed to the idea growing up. At the age of 6, I gave myself a headstart by struggling to read. In elementary school, the pattern continued as English was consistently my worst subject. Grammar and spelling never quite clicked in my brain—the latter of the two still has not improved with time (thank god for spell check). Thus, in middle school, I finally waved the white flag. I remember thinking to myself, “I’m good at many things, and I acknowledge that writing will never be on that list.” I never once thought I was good at writing, or had any interest in writing for myself.

I believe part of this misconception about writing came with its elusive nature. Growing up, it frustrated me that there was never a formula to follow. Unlike the math problems I could easily solve, writing left me uneasy on how to approach it, and even worse, how do you know when a piece is done? How do you know if it's good?

I didn’t like these aspects of writing for a long time. The only writing I did throughout my life was in a journal. I’m not sure what drew me to it, but initially I journaled to process things around me and to remember my life. Either way, I’ve been doing it consistently for the past seven years.

When I got to Princeton, my conception of writing didn’t change immediately. I took the infamous freshman writing seminar and felt further convinced that writing was not for me—academic writing at least. Slowly though, my journal evolved. Here and there I would write an entry that sounded pretty enough to share out loud with my sister. Looking back, I think my journaling slowly morphed into a sort of expressive art form. I was journaling to process my emotions, but also to portray my life in a poetic way. 

Even as I grew to love journaling, I did not formalize my love for writing until I found myself here, blogging for Princeton’s Admission Office. This job has helped me formalize my journal-like rants into completed pieces that I can share. And through these blogs, I realized a new inkling for that elusive yet expressive process we call creative writing. 

All of this is to say that being fluent in an art form doesn’t come naturally for everyone. For me, I believe years of journaling evolved a weakness of mine into a strength. It has been an unexpected turn of events to say the least. I don’t know if I’ve earned myself the title of a writer, but I can admit that I now view myself as one. 

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My Growth As a Writer- Final Draft

 To quote the renowned philosopher Voltaire, “Writing is the painting of the voice.” From a young age, I have always enjoyed writing. Whether it be digitally or physically, writing has always brought me comfort and relief. It is the medium by which I am able to express emotions I am afraid to say aloud. I would even go as far to say that it is one of my most prized possessions. However, I will be the first to confess that I am by no means a great writer. Nevertheless, I have always tried to improve. I have always strived to hone this craft to the best of my ability. Throughout several years of academia- elementary school, middle school, and high school- I have observed gradual, minute improvement in my writing. However, I have never been so confident with the quality of my writing as I have over the course of these past four months of writing 101. I feel this improvement to be specifically attributed to my utilization of diligence, consistency, and peer review.

It brings me no little amount of amusement to say that peer review is, by far, the most advantageous tool that helped improve my writing. I once detested peer review because I thought it fruitless, embarrassing, and condescending. This may be due to past experience; peer review has never significantly brought me improvement. However, during this past semester, I can proudly attest that peer review has changed my writing habits for the better. The constructive criticism that peer review brings helps me in a myriad of ways. Thanks to the objectivity of my peers, I am able to view my work from different perspectives, which allows me to elaborate upon, or fix, certain ideas and notions. For example, it has often been stated by my peers that I could improve upon my fluidity to give my work more structure. I have always struggled with this because I find it hard to eloquently link certain sentences or ideas with their proper partners. Before peer review, I feel I would frequently approach a creative roadblock. I would sporadically write strong sentences and paragraphs, and then have no idea where to put them, or how to connect them. After peer review, however, I gain helpful, objective insight that allows me to overcome this writer’s block, and adequately phrase my intentions. Moreover, I am a very talkative person, and it often shows in my writing. Peer review has rescued me from my reputation for verbosity, and has offered concise alternatives that adequately display my points. Where I flourish in word count, I fail miserably in brevity and fluidity. Peer review, overall, has brought me priceless qualities, enlightenment, and a tad bit of pride. Having an audience helps me identify and evaluate my strengths and weaknesses.

The other indispensable tools this class has presented me with would be diligence and consistency. Consistency and diligence have been the most effective and reliable method of improving my writing skills. The more you practice, the more you grow. Consistent, diligent practice allows you to see your growth and your shortcomings, along with your stylistic tone and habitual writing tendencies. It also aids in molding your identity as a writer. For example, if I compare my work from the beginning of the semester, which was an analysis piece of David Brook’s New York Time Op-Ed, to my most recent paper, a personal Op-Ed, changes in my writing tendencies can be clearly distinguished in that there is more conciseness, style, and clarity of tone. By practicing more, and with honest effort, my faults become glaringly apparent and, consequently, can be addressed and improved upon.

While the concept of writing well and often is not hard to grasp (it is simply practice), the execution is particularly difficult. Diligence is highly lacking in today’s modern, convenient world. More often than not, especially in academia, people will do only enough to satisfy the needs of the task. The same quality of work will not result from obligatory effort as it will from voluntary effort. That is to say a fundamental truth: we learn by practice. However, it is hard for students, especially college freshmen like me, to become motivated enough to practice, let alone to do good practice. This laziness is something I once gladly indulged in. However, as my growth as a writer became steadily apparent, I realized the importance and the impact of trying your best. By motivating myself to try my best, I began to realize my full potential. Thus, consistent writing, combined with genuine effort, or due diligence, regardless of the motivator, will inevitably result in noticeable change.

It is a rarity to literally be able to look back upon your growth. That, I believe, is why I hold writing so dear- why it is so beautiful. It is an everlasting reminder, a figurative tool by which you can gauge your growth: from where you once were to where you are now. This class has allowed me to showcase the improvement of my writing abilities, which I owe in no little part to peer review, consistency, and diligence. To peer review, I accredit my style and growth. I will always treasure peer review in that it gave me an audience which appraised and revealed my strengths, weaknesses, and idiosyncrasies when I was blind to them. Thanks to this tool, I am able to dauntlessly accept criticism. Moreover, by implementing due diligence and consistency, I have learned immensely about my capabilities and tendencies as a writer, and am able to bring my full potential as a writer to realization. It is because of these tools I can, in short, effectively expand upon my ideas, think objectively, provide structure, and exercise brevity. It is because of these tools that I have improved at all. This semester has proved extremely valuable in helping me realize the importance of introspection, and will remain forever fundamental in my development as a writer.

2 thoughts on “ My Growth As a Writer- Final Draft ”

Excellent work, Jamya! I always enjoy reading your work because you have such an expansive vocabulary 🙂 Oh, and that was a great idea to copy your analysis essay here to more easily hyperlink it. Wonderful job this semester — I look forward to working with you in the spring too!

Thank you so so much! It truly means a lot that you have noticed my efforts and my work. You have been such a wonderful teacher, and I am eager to be working with you in the upcoming semester as well. Have a happy Thanksgiving and a merry Christmas!

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3 Reasons Why You’re a Better Writer Than You Think

How to counteract psychological biases that suppress your confidence as a writer..

Posted September 4, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

• Cultivating Confidence
• Take our Assertiveness Test
• Find a Self Esteem Therapist
• Most writers are more skilled than they think.
• Writers' doubts develop from psycological biases.
• Our brain weighs criticisms and rejection more heavily than compliments.
• With a few simple tricks, you can rewire your brain to avoid such doubts.

“Am I a good writer?”

If you are new to writing, there’s a good chance this question leaks into your thoughts on a daily, perhaps hourly basis. You hand in that finished piece to your teacher, submit a story to a publication, or paste the first sentence of your novel in a #FirstLineFriday forum and then wait, breath bated, for feedback that will answer this question.

Well, I’m here to tell you that if you are asking this question, there’s a good chance you are a much better writer than you think. Don’t believe me? Well, there’s a good reason for that. Anyone starting out in a new endeavor is likely to experience some doubt in their skills. In this post, I explore the psychological biases that cause you to doubt your writing skills. In the next post, I explore a few inescapable aspects of the publishing industry that only serve to magnify this doubt.

Negativity Bias in the Writer’s Brain

The human brain is hardwired with something called the “negativity bias .” This bias refers to the fact that negative things have a greater impact on our psychological and emotional state than positive things. Put another way, our brains weigh bad information more heavily than good. As a result, the pain from one negative comment is felt stronger than the joy of numerous positive comments. Compliments are kind of like Chinese food, you devour them and an hour later you’re hungry again. Criticisms are like a bad batch of sushi, their sour taste lingers in your memory for hours, days, even years later.

Unfortunately, the writing industry is structured so that you are much more likely to receive bad feedback. Rejections are the norm; acceptances are the rarity. In his book On Writing , Stephen King tells how as a young writer he speared each rejection letter received on a nail in the wall. “By the time I was fourteen, the nail in my wall would no longer support the weight of the rejection slips impaled upon it.” How did he cope with this barrage of negative feedback? “I replaced the nail with a spike and went on writing.”

Take a cue from Uncle Stevie, accept rejection as part of the process but don’t make the mistake of interpreting that rejection as evidence that you are a bad writer. Remember, your brain is designed to make that very interpretation, but fight it off and keep on writing.

Negativity Bias in the Reader’s Brain

Negativity bias doesn’t just impact the writer’s brain, it impacts the reader’s brain too. If someone buys your book on Amazon and hates it, there’s a good chance they’re going to leave a bad review. But the readers who loved your book? The majority of them will quietly enjoy it and you will never hear from them.

The negativity bias in our brains produces a negativity bias in our reviews. Always keep this in mind when you are checking reviews of your own work and make your psychological adjustments accordingly. Or do what some writers do and just skip reading reviews of your work altogether.

Unrealistic Social Comparisons

Let’s say you want to assess your ability to make a free-throw shot. Would you compare your performance to Stephen Curry? Or would you compare it to someone who is comparable to you in terms of age, height, and experience level? To get the most accurate assessment of your current skill level, you would be smart to choose the latter.

But I’m guessing this isn’t the strategy you take when assessing your writing ability. You compare your writing to that of your favorite author who’s probably been writing longer than you have been alive! Or you compare yourself to writers with far more training and mentoring than you currently have. If you only compare your skill level and your successes to the elite writers, you are going to walk away feeling like a failure. The same would be true if you judged your free-throw skills by only comparing them with NBA superstars.

Stop comparing yourself to best-selling authors and superstar writers. Start comparing yourself to writers who match you in terms of experience in their writing career . Or better yet, learn to appreciate that as different artists with different skills, comparison may not be a fruitful endeavor at all. Trust your skills and improve on your weaknesses. Try and be a better writer than you were before — that’s your comparison.

Know Your Worth

Rejection is arguably the most painful part of being a writer, but it doesn’t have to be. To understand why this is the case, consider the Buddhist parable of the second arrow. According to this teaching, every time we experience misfortune, two arrows fly at us. The first arrow is the actual negative event. The second is our reaction to that event. The second arrow is the one that causes greater suffering, and that is especially unfortunate since the second arrow is the one that can actually be avoided. For example, your significant other breaks up with you and that hurts. But it will hurt even more if you interpret this breakup as proof that you are unlovable and destined to be alone.

Now let’s apply this principle to writing. The rejection itself isn’t really that painful (first arrow), rather it is the meaning that your unconsciously attach to the rejection (second arrow) that causes you the most pain. You interpret rejection as a sign that your story or poem isn’t a good one, or worse, that you are not a good writer in general. Remember, all a rejection means is that this specific piece did not 100% convince a specific editor to publish your work in a specific outlet. That’s it. See how less painful that interpretation feels?

When Stephen King was a burgeoning author, he literally threw his novel Carrie in the trashcan before his wife Tabitha fished it out and convinced him it was worth continuing. We all know how that story turned out, which means that Tabitha had a more accurate assessment of the novel than Stephen. Don’t fall prey to this same confidence trap. If you want to be a writer, commit to it, work hard to improve your skills, and know that each project you finish, each piece of feedback you receive, each rejection you accumulate, is honing your skills and making you a better writer, even if at times it doesn’t feel that way.

By making this mental shift, you can welcome rejections (or at the very least endure them) rather than use their barbed points to pierce holes in your confidence.

For more advice on how you can use psychological science to improve your writing skills, boost your creativity , and blast through writer's block, see my other posts.

Melissa Burkley, Ph.D. , is a psychologist and author of both fiction and non-fiction.

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Writing Between Worlds: Navigating My African and American Identities on the Page

Itoro bassey on the gift of being understood.

If you had known me when I was much younger, and asked how I identified, I would have told you that I was Black. This would have been my way to acknowledge my Blackness in America, being that I was born and raised in this country, while simultaneously acknowledging that I was born to Nigerian immigrants, which usually meant that my particular experience as a Black person in America was markedly different from most of my African American peers. I was not from one of those families that traveled back home every year like some cousins I knew, which further solidified my distance from my parents’ homeland and cultural practices.

Though I couldn’t fully claim the experience of African Americans whose people had been enslaved and brought to this country, their collective struggles and triumphs had taught me a lot about how I wanted to show up in the world. I had a great respect for what they had been through as a collective, and the beauty they had produced in the face of such odds, and, for me, the particular reality of navigating the US while Black was more resonant in my consciousness than my Nigerian identity.

In high school I was introduced to authors like Toni Morrison and Richard Wright. I read Jazz in a literature class as the token BIPOC book that had made its way into the syllabus, and Native Son in an Intro to Law class, where the teacher used the character of Bigger Thomas as a case study into the mind of a criminal. It would be years later, when I was training to become a teacher myself, that it would hit me how cruel this particular teacher had been in her final assessment of the main character. I’d break down in tears over this revelation, and say a word of gratitude for the struggles fought to make it possible for me to have access to authors like Morrison and Wright, even if in such a limited manner.

I suspect the teacher’s hope was to plant a seed that would make me criminalize Blackness, but instead, I developed a curiosity about my personal connection to a larger Black experience within an interconnected—and at times fraught—tapestry of understandings. Perhaps I could not fully claim the experiences of African Americans who had produced prolific writers like Morrison and Wright; and neither could I fully claim the stories told by Nigerian writers like Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Adichie. But at the very least I could be in conversation with these writers from my particular vantage point.

I’ve been asked quite a few times: Who do you write for? Usually I’m asked this question in reference to identifying who in the marketplace would be interested in reading my work. It’s become a complex question to answer, because usually, I’m mining decades of absence, dispersion and grief within characters who are trying to find the language to say the unsayable across space and time. And sometimes, if they could say that which could be said, they may choose to not say it at all, because the people they’re speaking to already have the scaffolding to understand their experience. If the scaffolding doesn’t exist, then this gap becomes a part of the story, a tension within the relationship.

When I lived in Nigeria for three years, there was a saying many people would use to convey this sentiment of what is intrinsically understood because one has been steeped in a particular experience shared among those who have lived it.

We know ourselves.

I was speaking to a friend about the teacher who introduced me to Native Son in high school. I’ll call this friend Naimah. She was born in the US to an immigrant Nigerian mother and an African American father.

“This teacher asked every Black kid in that class—and you know there were only two of us—did we ever feel bad about being Black.” I said, enraged. “And of course we say yes, because we think she cares about what’s happening to us. And then the next day she draws a Venn diagram on the chalkboard breaking down Bigger Thomas’ mind, making the case that he was primed to become a criminal. And then she wanted a fifteen-hundred-word essay on how one becomes a criminal using Bigger Thomas as the example. That was the only Black book we ever read in her class! Can you believe?”

Naimah, who usually had an answer for everything, shook her head and said,

“Girl, I know. These people… God will deal with them.”

“God will deal with them,” is what many Nigerians said to express powerlessness in the face of an impossible situation. They simply give it over to a higher power and move on.

From Naimah’s response, it was clear she had her own set of grievances that she had moved on from. I felt great relief in knowing that I was understood in this friendship. The type of pain I was still holding was known, and it didn’t require further explanation.

What steers my writing, is a quest to find the we . My experience straddling both Blackness in America and alienation from my parents’ homeland has made me crave literature where those of us living within the African Diaspora, and those on the outside, can learn about and from each other. It isn’t about writing in a way that only humanizes Black people to white people and non-Black people eager to learn about different experiences—it’s also about telling stories where Black people, no matter where we find ourselves, can be witnessed by each other.

It’s my hope to show the intimacy of how one shifts between worlds and different understandings. This is the experience for those of us who exist in that place Chicana feminist and writer Gloria Anzaldúa called the third space. Anzaldúa was describing the growing consciousness emerging within Latinx communities finding themselves between two homelands; grappling with being from neither here, nor there.

“I am participating in the creation of yet another culture,” she writes in Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza , “a new story to explain the world and our participation in it, a new value system with images and symbols that connect us to each other and the planet.”

Anzaldúa’s tremendous groundwork has helped me become a writer unafraid of writing worlds within worlds while recognizing how I exist in all of them.

When someone reads my work, the most exciting thing a reader can tell me suggests understanding, and being understood: “Say less.”

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Home — Essay Samples — Arts & Culture — Art History — English 101 Final Reflection: My Growth as a Writer

English 101 Final Reflection: My Growth as a Writer

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Why A.I. Isn’t Going to Make Art

In 1953, Roald Dahl published “ The Great Automatic Grammatizator ,” a short story about an electrical engineer who secretly desires to be a writer. One day, after completing construction of the world’s fastest calculating machine, the engineer realizes that “English grammar is governed by rules that are almost mathematical in their strictness.” He constructs a fiction-writing machine that can produce a five-thousand-word short story in thirty seconds; a novel takes fifteen minutes and requires the operator to manipulate handles and foot pedals, as if he were driving a car or playing an organ, to regulate the levels of humor and pathos. The resulting novels are so popular that, within a year, half the fiction published in English is a product of the engineer’s invention.

Is there anything about art that makes us think it can’t be created by pushing a button, as in Dahl’s imagination? Right now, the fiction generated by large language models like ChatGPT is terrible, but one can imagine that such programs might improve in the future. How good could they get? Could they get better than humans at writing fiction—or making paintings or movies—in the same way that calculators are better at addition and subtraction?

Art is notoriously hard to define, and so are the differences between good art and bad art. But let me offer a generalization: art is something that results from making a lot of choices. This might be easiest to explain if we use fiction writing as an example. When you are writing fiction, you are—consciously or unconsciously—making a choice about almost every word you type; to oversimplify, we can imagine that a ten-thousand-word short story requires something on the order of ten thousand choices. When you give a generative-A.I. program a prompt, you are making very few choices; if you supply a hundred-word prompt, you have made on the order of a hundred choices.

If an A.I. generates a ten-thousand-word story based on your prompt, it has to fill in for all of the choices that you are not making. There are various ways it can do this. One is to take an average of the choices that other writers have made, as represented by text found on the Internet; that average is equivalent to the least interesting choices possible, which is why A.I.-generated text is often really bland. Another is to instruct the program to engage in style mimicry, emulating the choices made by a specific writer, which produces a highly derivative story. In neither case is it creating interesting art.

I think the same underlying principle applies to visual art, although it’s harder to quantify the choices that a painter might make. Real paintings bear the mark of an enormous number of decisions. By comparison, a person using a text-to-image program like DALL-E enters a prompt such as “A knight in a suit of armor fights a fire-breathing dragon,” and lets the program do the rest. (The newest version of DALL-E accepts prompts of up to four thousand characters—hundreds of words, but not enough to describe every detail of a scene.) Most of the choices in the resulting image have to be borrowed from similar paintings found online; the image might be exquisitely rendered, but the person entering the prompt can’t claim credit for that.

Some commentators imagine that image generators will affect visual culture as much as the advent of photography once did. Although this might seem superficially plausible, the idea that photography is similar to generative A.I. deserves closer examination. When photography was first developed, I suspect it didn’t seem like an artistic medium because it wasn’t apparent that there were a lot of choices to be made; you just set up the camera and start the exposure. But over time people realized that there were a vast number of things you could do with cameras, and the artistry lies in the many choices that a photographer makes. It might not always be easy to articulate what the choices are, but when you compare an amateur’s photos to a professional’s, you can see the difference. So then the question becomes: Is there a similar opportunity to make a vast number of choices using a text-to-image generator? I think the answer is no. An artist—whether working digitally or with paint—implicitly makes far more decisions during the process of making a painting than would fit into a text prompt of a few hundred words.

We can imagine a text-to-image generator that, over the course of many sessions, lets you enter tens of thousands of words into its text box to enable extremely fine-grained control over the image you’re producing; this would be something analogous to Photoshop with a purely textual interface. I’d say that a person could use such a program and still deserve to be called an artist. The film director Bennett Miller has used DALL-E 2 to generate some very striking images that have been exhibited at the Gagosian gallery; to create them, he crafted detailed text prompts and then instructed DALL-E to revise and manipulate the generated images again and again. He generated more than a hundred thousand images to arrive at the twenty images in the exhibit. But he has said that he hasn’t been able to obtain comparable results on later releases of DALL-E . I suspect this might be because Miller was using DALL-E for something it’s not intended to do; it’s as if he hacked Microsoft Paint to make it behave like Photoshop, but as soon as a new version of Paint was released, his hacks stopped working. OpenAI probably isn’t trying to build a product to serve users like Miller, because a product that requires a user to work for months to create an image isn’t appealing to a wide audience. The company wants to offer a product that generates images with little effort.

It’s harder to imagine a program that, over many sessions, helps you write a good novel. This hypothetical writing program might require you to enter a hundred thousand words of prompts in order for it to generate an entirely different hundred thousand words that make up the novel you’re envisioning. It’s not clear to me what such a program would look like. Theoretically, if such a program existed, the user could perhaps deserve to be called the author. But, again, I don’t think companies like OpenAI want to create versions of ChatGPT that require just as much effort from users as writing a novel from scratch. The selling point of generative A.I. is that these programs generate vastly more than you put into them, and that is precisely what prevents them from being effective tools for artists.

The companies promoting generative-A.I. programs claim that they will unleash creativity. In essence, they are saying that art can be all inspiration and no perspiration—but these things cannot be easily separated. I’m not saying that art has to involve tedium. What I’m saying is that art requires making choices at every scale; the countless small-scale choices made during implementation are just as important to the final product as the few large-scale choices made during the conception. It is a mistake to equate “large-scale” with “important” when it comes to the choices made when creating art; the interrelationship between the large scale and the small scale is where the artistry lies.

Believing that inspiration outweighs everything else is, I suspect, a sign that someone is unfamiliar with the medium. I contend that this is true even if one’s goal is to create entertainment rather than high art. People often underestimate the effort required to entertain; a thriller novel may not live up to Kafka’s ideal of a book—an “axe for the frozen sea within us”—but it can still be as finely crafted as a Swiss watch. And an effective thriller is more than its premise or its plot. I doubt you could replace every sentence in a thriller with one that is semantically equivalent and have the resulting novel be as entertaining. This means that its sentences—and the small-scale choices they represent—help to determine the thriller’s effectiveness.

Many novelists have had the experience of being approached by someone convinced that they have a great idea for a novel, which they are willing to share in exchange for a fifty-fifty split of the proceeds. Such a person inadvertently reveals that they think formulating sentences is a nuisance rather than a fundamental part of storytelling in prose. Generative A.I. appeals to people who think they can express themselves in a medium without actually working in that medium. But the creators of traditional novels, paintings, and films are drawn to those art forms because they see the unique expressive potential that each medium affords. It is their eagerness to take full advantage of those potentialities that makes their work satisfying, whether as entertainment or as art.

Of course, most pieces of writing, whether articles or reports or e-mails, do not come with the expectation that they embody thousands of choices. In such cases, is there any harm in automating the task? Let me offer another generalization: any writing that deserves your attention as a reader is the result of effort expended by the person who wrote it. Effort during the writing process doesn’t guarantee the end product is worth reading, but worthwhile work cannot be made without it. The type of attention you pay when reading a personal e-mail is different from the type you pay when reading a business report, but in both cases it is only warranted when the writer put some thought into it.

Recently, Google aired a commercial during the Paris Olympics for Gemini, its competitor to OpenAI’s GPT-4 . The ad shows a father using Gemini to compose a fan letter, which his daughter will send to an Olympic athlete who inspires her. Google pulled the commercial after widespread backlash from viewers; a media professor called it “one of the most disturbing commercials I’ve ever seen.” It’s notable that people reacted this way, even though artistic creativity wasn’t the attribute being supplanted. No one expects a child’s fan letter to an athlete to be extraordinary; if the young girl had written the letter herself, it would likely have been indistinguishable from countless others. The significance of a child’s fan letter—both to the child who writes it and to the athlete who receives it—comes from its being heartfelt rather than from its being eloquent.

Many of us have sent store-bought greeting cards, knowing that it will be clear to the recipient that we didn’t compose the words ourselves. We don’t copy the words from a Hallmark card in our own handwriting, because that would feel dishonest. The programmer Simon Willison has described the training for large language models as “money laundering for copyrighted data,” which I find a useful way to think about the appeal of generative-A.I. programs: they let you engage in something like plagiarism, but there’s no guilt associated with it because it’s not clear even to you that you’re copying.

Some have claimed that large language models are not laundering the texts they’re trained on but, rather, learning from them, in the same way that human writers learn from the books they’ve read. But a large language model is not a writer; it’s not even a user of language. Language is, by definition, a system of communication, and it requires an intention to communicate. Your phone’s auto-complete may offer good suggestions or bad ones, but in neither case is it trying to say anything to you or the person you’re texting. The fact that ChatGPT can generate coherent sentences invites us to imagine that it understands language in a way that your phone’s auto-complete does not, but it has no more intention to communicate.

It is very easy to get ChatGPT to emit a series of words such as “I am happy to see you.” There are many things we don’t understand about how large language models work, but one thing we can be sure of is that ChatGPT is not happy to see you. A dog can communicate that it is happy to see you, and so can a prelinguistic child, even though both lack the capability to use words. ChatGPT feels nothing and desires nothing, and this lack of intention is why ChatGPT is not actually using language. What makes the words “I’m happy to see you” a linguistic utterance is not that the sequence of text tokens that it is made up of are well formed; what makes it a linguistic utterance is the intention to communicate something.

Because language comes so easily to us, it’s easy to forget that it lies on top of these other experiences of subjective feeling and of wanting to communicate that feeling. We’re tempted to project those experiences onto a large language model when it emits coherent sentences, but to do so is to fall prey to mimicry; it’s the same phenomenon as when butterflies evolve large dark spots on their wings that can fool birds into thinking they’re predators with big eyes. There is a context in which the dark spots are sufficient; birds are less likely to eat a butterfly that has them, and the butterfly doesn’t really care why it’s not being eaten, as long as it gets to live. But there is a big difference between a butterfly and a predator that poses a threat to a bird.

A person using generative A.I. to help them write might claim that they are drawing inspiration from the texts the model was trained on, but I would again argue that this differs from what we usually mean when we say one writer draws inspiration from another. Consider a college student who turns in a paper that consists solely of a five-page quotation from a book, stating that this quotation conveys exactly what she wanted to say, better than she could say it herself. Even if the student is completely candid with the instructor about what she’s done, it’s not accurate to say that she is drawing inspiration from the book she’s citing. The fact that a large language model can reword the quotation enough that the source is unidentifiable doesn’t change the fundamental nature of what’s going on.

As the linguist Emily M. Bender has noted, teachers don’t ask students to write essays because the world needs more student essays. The point of writing essays is to strengthen students’ critical-thinking skills; in the same way that lifting weights is useful no matter what sport an athlete plays, writing essays develops skills necessary for whatever job a college student will eventually get. Using ChatGPT to complete assignments is like bringing a forklift into the weight room; you will never improve your cognitive fitness that way.

Not all writing needs to be creative, or heartfelt, or even particularly good; sometimes it simply needs to exist. Such writing might support other goals, such as attracting views for advertising or satisfying bureaucratic requirements. When people are required to produce such text, we can hardly blame them for using whatever tools are available to accelerate the process. But is the world better off with more documents that have had minimal effort expended on them? It would be unrealistic to claim that if we refuse to use large language models, then the requirements to create low-quality text will disappear. However, I think it is inevitable that the more we use large language models to fulfill those requirements, the greater those requirements will eventually become. We are entering an era where someone might use a large language model to generate a document out of a bulleted list, and send it to a person who will use a large language model to condense that document into a bulleted list. Can anyone seriously argue that this is an improvement?

It’s not impossible that one day we will have computer programs that can do anything a human being can do, but, contrary to the claims of the companies promoting A.I., that is not something we’ll see in the next few years. Even in domains that have absolutely nothing to do with creativity, current A.I. programs have profound limitations that give us legitimate reasons to question whether they deserve to be called intelligent at all.

The computer scientist François Chollet has proposed the following distinction: skill is how well you perform at a task, while intelligence is how efficiently you gain new skills. I think this reflects our intuitions about human beings pretty well. Most people can learn a new skill given sufficient practice, but the faster the person picks up the skill, the more intelligent we think the person is. What’s interesting about this definition is that—unlike I.Q. tests—it’s also applicable to nonhuman entities; when a dog learns a new trick quickly, we consider that a sign of intelligence.

In 2019, researchers conducted an experiment in which they taught rats how to drive. They put the rats in little plastic containers with three copper-wire bars; when the mice put their paws on one of these bars, the container would either go forward, or turn left or turn right. The rats could see a plate of food on the other side of the room and tried to get their vehicles to go toward it. The researchers trained the rats for five minutes at a time, and after twenty-four practice sessions, the rats had become proficient at driving. Twenty-four trials were enough to master a task that no rat had likely ever encountered before in the evolutionary history of the species. I think that’s a good demonstration of intelligence.

Now consider the current A.I. programs that are widely acclaimed for their performance. AlphaZero, a program developed by Google’s DeepMind, plays chess better than any human player, but during its training it played forty-four million games, far more than any human can play in a lifetime. For it to master a new game, it will have to undergo a similarly enormous amount of training. By Chollet’s definition, programs like AlphaZero are highly skilled, but they aren’t particularly intelligent, because they aren’t efficient at gaining new skills. It is currently impossible to write a computer program capable of learning even a simple task in only twenty-four trials, if the programmer is not given information about the task beforehand.

Self-driving cars trained on millions of miles of driving can still crash into an overturned trailer truck, because such things are not commonly found in their training data, whereas humans taking their first driving class will know to stop. More than our ability to solve algebraic equations, our ability to cope with unfamiliar situations is a fundamental part of why we consider humans intelligent. Computers will not be able to replace humans until they acquire that type of competence, and that is still a long way off; for the time being, we’re just looking for jobs that can be done with turbocharged auto-complete.

Despite years of hype, the ability of generative A.I. to dramatically increase economic productivity remains theoretical. (Earlier this year, Goldman Sachs released a report titled “Gen AI: Too Much Spend, Too Little Benefit?”) The task that generative A.I. has been most successful at is lowering our expectations, both of the things we read and of ourselves when we write anything for others to read. It is a fundamentally dehumanizing technology because it treats us as less than what we are: creators and apprehenders of meaning. It reduces the amount of intention in the world.

Some individuals have defended large language models by saying that most of what human beings say or write isn’t particularly original. That is true, but it’s also irrelevant. When someone says “I’m sorry” to you, it doesn’t matter that other people have said sorry in the past; it doesn’t matter that “I’m sorry” is a string of text that is statistically unremarkable. If someone is being sincere, their apology is valuable and meaningful, even though apologies have previously been uttered. Likewise, when you tell someone that you’re happy to see them, you are saying something meaningful, even if it lacks novelty.

Something similar holds true for art. Whether you are creating a novel or a painting or a film, you are engaged in an act of communication between you and your audience. What you create doesn’t have to be utterly unlike every prior piece of art in human history to be valuable; the fact that you’re the one who is saying it, the fact that it derives from your unique life experience and arrives at a particular moment in the life of whoever is seeing your work, is what makes it new. We are all products of what has come before us, but it’s by living our lives in interaction with others that we bring meaning into the world. That is something that an auto-complete algorithm can never do, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. ♦

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What I Read This Summer – Part 1

Get thee behind me summer! In the U.S. we’ve been bombarded by political conventions, extreme heat, and lots of big, fat books. It’s 93° in Chicago as of this writing, but I’m off to the Inside Passage on Thursday for my first visit to Alaska. Rain and 50° are promised. I welcome that, if it does not obscure the mountains and glaciers. On the other hand, that’s plenty of time for reading .

Below are some titles I finished this summer, but since the list is longish, I’ll be splitting into 2 parts.

Blood and Thunder: The Epic Story of Kit Carson and the Conquest of the American West by Hampton Sides (Anchor Books, 2006)

Full disclosure: I’m an American history wonk, especially the settlement of the U.S . Blood and Thunder is a masterpiece of creative non-fiction that brings the opening of the West into vivid detail. During his four years as president, James K. Polk oversaw the greatest territorial expansion of the United States to date.

Polk accomplished this through the annexation of Texas in 1845, the negotiation of the Oregon Treaty with Great Britain in 1846, and the conclusion of the Mexican-American War in 1848. Except for the perimeter and major trails, this new country was unknown except to the Native Americans and Mexicans.

Kit Carson was born in Missouri, trapped in the Rockies and the Sangre de Christo Mountains, and guided wagon trains along the Santa Fe and Oregon trails. He was instrumental in opening Polk’s West and in winning the Civil War in the Western U.S. At his life’s end he was a general in the U.S. Army. He could not read nor write.

Take time to read this book. It’s long – 500 pages – and worth every word. And, if you have not yet visited the Navaho Reservation, spread across four states, put it on your bucket list. Canyon de Chelle will blow you away. We hired a Navaho guide (you cannot enter unless accompanied by a member of the tribe) who walked and climbed with us down and up the steep canyon walls. Memory of a lifetime.

Cahokia Jazz by Francis Spufford (Scribner, 2023)

I’m not a fan of speculative fiction, but Cahokia Jazz has its moments. I grew up in St. Louis with the Cahokia Mounds right across the river. These are the burial monuments of Native Americans living in the area 1050 to 1350 CE. It’s been speculated they had a large and cultured civilization, one of many that spread across North and South America long before the arrival of Europeans.

Cahokia Jazz keeps this civilization alive and independent through the early 1920s. The rest of the United States is divided into North and South and a Mormon state to the West. The Indians are power brokers, served by both black and white citizens. It’s not a great novel, but I admire writers who can create such alternative worlds – and Spufford is a Brit.

The English Understand Wool by Helen DeWitt (Storybook ND, 2022)

A charming little book (70 pages) in which a 17-year-old woman tells her amazing story. It’s full of the lessons learned from her mother who taught her what she needed to do to enjoy le bon vie. .. One such lesson is, you always have the English tailor your woolens as they understand wool. Just as you buy linen from the Irish and have that tailored by the French.

The writing is austere, as you expect from such a refined person – precise with a lovely surprise ending. Do yourself a favor, read it!

A History of the World in 10 ½ Chapters by Julian Barnes, (Vintage International, 1989)

When this book first appeared, one reviewer for The Guardian considered it a “newfangled romp”– unworthy of a writer of Barnes’s stature. Others worried that Barnes called it a novel when it is really a collection of short stories and an essay. Whatever the intellectuals thought, for me this is a delightful book of stories loosely tied by themes and even characters. And each time I found the breadcrumb that tied one story to an earlier one, I was delighted. A good read.

Roman Fever and Other Stories by Elizabeth Wharton (Scribner, 2012, originally published in 1939)

Edith Wharton is such a great writer! Every time I pick one of her books it surprises me with the freshness of the style and the plot. All the stories in this book are intriguing. “Roman Fever” will leave you “gob-smacked.” Treat yourself to one of the best American writers with this book.

Tell Me Everything: The Story of a Private Investigation by Erika Krouse (Flatiron Books, 2022)

Are you one of those listeners to whom people tell their life stories? Erika Krouse is. She put this skill to clever use, becoming a private investigator involved in notorious litigations. Both she and the lawyer with whom she worked never gave up on the causes they supported. It usually resulted in staggering settlements for the plaintiffs. A good read, especially if you like legal investigation non-fiction.

Flaubert’s Parrott by Julian Barnes (Vintage Books, 1990, first published 1984)

While I loved A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters , Flaubert’s Parrott left me flummoxed and unsatisfied. What the heck is this book? Ten years of sporadic research from which Barnes could not derive a narrative? Flaubert, supposed author of the modern novel (think Madam Bovary), does not seem an interesting subject. Reclusive, arrogant, epileptic (which probably led him to be reclusive), unmarried, great letter writer, a good friend to some – and a lover of parrots. Unless you are a student of French literature, let Mr. Flaubert and his parrots stay undisturbed.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How many books did you manage to read this summer? Which was the season’s highlight and why? What other titles would you recommend to the community?

I loved the Navajo Nation and Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Particular. So many interesting things to learn. The ancient people were truly inventive, creative and adaptable. I, too, and a history buff. This summer I spent time reading books about the US Navy in WWII and the Lewis and Clark journey.

Ann Boland is committed to Chicago theater, opera, and arts. Involved as a theatre-goer since the early 80s, she’s witnessed firsthand the rise of Chicago's theater scene, its exceptional local talent, and the vigor of each new generation. To support her good and bad habits, Ann handles public relations for authors and the arts.

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Man who threatened skier, snowboarder near Brighton with a gun had to write an essay. Here’s what it said.

Man who asked “are you an ikon user” to alleged trespassers required to write an essay on “the use of deadly force in utah” as part of plea deal..

The Brighton man who threatened a skier and a snowboarder with his Winchester rifle after they crossed his driveway last winter wouldn’t say he brandished his weapon. He now admits, however, that he “exhibited” the gun.

Keith Stebbings, 67, pleaded guilty to third-degree felony assault for his interactions with the skier and snowboarder on separate incidents near his home in the Town of Brighton on Feb. 24. The felony charge will be dismissed, however, if Stebbings abides by all the terms of his probation. A second charge of threatening, a Class B misdemeanor, was dismissed with prejudice.

As part of his plea, which he entered into the 3rd District Court on June 25, Stebbings was put on probation for 36 months. The court also demanded he surrender his .30-30 Winchester rifle, take a gun safety course and write an essay on “The use of deadly force in Utah.”

Stebbings did not return calls seeking comment for this report.

“I do appreciate the term ‘exhibited’ in the [Utah Criminal Code]. It is far clearer to me than brandished,” Stebbings wrote in his essay, which was obtained by The Salt Lake Tribune. “I was unaware at the time of the incident that exhibiting an unloaded gun on my personal property was unlawful when encountering an individual trespassing.”

(Rick Egan | The Salt Lake Tribune) Old Prospect Road, where a man threatened a snowboarder with a shotgun for allegedly entering his property near Brighton Ski Resort, on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.

On the day in question, snowboarder Loren Richardson, 41, was following a plowed path he said he believed would lead him from the backcountry near Brighton Resort to his vacation rental in town. When he banked around a cluster of trees, however, Richardson came face to face with Stebbings and the barrel of his rifle. Stebbings then began cursing at Richardson and shoving him.

“What are you, an Ikon user ?” Stebbings said, referring to the multi-resort ski pass often blamed for overcrowding at resorts. “I don’t give a [expletive]. This is private property.”

“Do it again and there will be holes in you.”

A GoPro camera attached to Richardson’s helmet recorded the entire interaction. It went viral when he posted it to his Instagram account and has received 106,000 plays.

Stebbings was dressed in a red checkered flannel shirt, black beanie and flowing gray pants. A red camping chair was set out in the path behind him. He continued to curse at Richardson after the snowboarder stopped, unbuckled from his snowboard and walked quickly down Old Prospect Avenue toward Big Cottonwood Canyon Road.

(Christopher Cherrington | The Salt Lake Tribune)

“My stomach was in my throat,” Richardson told The Tribune in February. “I was just like: ‘Be apologetic.’ I don’t know. ‘Why is he going to shoot me? Why is this happening?’”

When he reached the junction of the two roads, Richardson met two skiers, one of whom said he also had been threatened by Stebbings. That skier, a Salt Lake City man who has asked not to be named, told the police Stebbings hit his hip with the butt of the rifle . He was returning to his car after taking a backcountry ski clinic near Guardsman Pass. Richardson came from the opposite direction via an egress into United States Forest Service property from Brighton Resort. Both said they did not see any “No Trespassing” or private property signs before Stebbings assaulted them.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LRF (@loren_richardson_films)

The skier’s father reported the encounter to the Unified Police Department that afternoon. Richardson filed his report two days later. When officers visited Stebbings house, he initially told them he didn’t know anything about the run-ins, according to a police report. Once informed he was caught on video, Stebbings told officers he and his neighbors had become frustrated with skiers and snowboarders trespassing over their property.

Stebbings’ essay on “the use of deadly force in Utah” consists of five paragraphs and an excerpt of Title 76 of the Utah Criminal Code, which defines “threatening with or using a dangerous weapon in a fight or quarrel.” He dedicated one of those paragraphs to telling the court that some of his neighbors “have banded together, partly on my behalf, to approach Brighton Ski Resort to inquire whether the Resort would be willing to develop a plan and install appropriate diversion mechanisms to alleviate the trespasser problem.”

Stebbings by The Salt Lake Tribune on Scribd

Stebbings formerly worked as a ski instructor for Brighton.

Brighton spokesperson Jared Winkler said the resort gave Stebbings fencing to cordon off his property immediately after learning of the encounters. He added that the resort is always open to listening to the community but he was unaware of anyone raising concerns about trespassers in the months since the encounters.

Previously, Winkler stated that Brighton is required by law to allow egress to adjacent USFS property and that it isn’t responsible for skiers and snowboarders once they leave the resort.

In his essay, Stebbings wrote that “following the incident, my behavior changed.” He said he now calls UPD to request more patrols on days he expects to see an influx of skiers and snowboarders crossing his property. He records video footage of alleged trespassers and gives them “a non-threatening warning that they are on private property.” And, he said, before the rifle was confiscated he no longer brought it outside.

UPD confiscated the Winchester rifle on July 7 and will hold it until Dec. 25, 2025, so long as Stebbings abides by his parole. He has been ordered to enroll in a gun safety course this fall and he cannot leave the state for more than 45 days at a time.

Though his probation is set for 36 months, Stebbings can wrap up his punishment by Christmas Day 2025 if he shows 100% compliance and receives a recommendation from the probation agency.

Editor’s note • This story is available to Salt Lake Tribune subscribers only. Thank you for supporting local journalism.

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