Let's Take this Seriously

I tend to be a little less than apologetic about the divide between "good" and "bad" writers and writing. I don't find that it helps anyone by skirting around the issue and pretending that everyone is a competent writer. If that were the case, then there wouldn't be any need for editors.

The conversation came up again in the context of talking about two types of writers: there are writers who write because they want to get published, and there are writers who write because they "just find it fun."

While I am eagerly encouraging to those folks who want to write as a form of therapy or release or out-poring of thought, I feel that taking your writing seriously means a few things.

1. Dedicate time to writing. This means setting aside time each day or week that is just for writing. It means that you're making time not finding time.
2. Find a writing group. This doesn't mean find a group of friends who are going to act as your "Yes Men". This means find a group of like-minded writers who are going to help you improve your craft.
3. Read. Read. Read. Pick up literary magazines; find online publications; go to the library and find collections. If you're going to write short stories or poems or any other piece of fiction, read what works.
4. Polish your material. A lot of writers spend a lot of time writing without really going back to look over their own material with a scrutinizing eye. Do that. Go back over your piece and read it with as unbiased an opinion as you can muster.
5. Consider what you do a profession. You want people to take you seriously as a writer so take your writing seriously.