Thank you. I needed to hear this right now, today.
I'm a retired teacher who has a ton of old journals, bits and pieces of books written over the years, and I am working on a couple of middle grade chapter books right now. I'm part of a small support group online and getting a lot of good feedback, but I am getting stuck over and over again in my effort to make it publishable.
I've read so many wonderful books aloud to my students over the years. I've got to just grab my storytelling voice, picture those kids, and write.
There are a few things I really liked in your article. One is the idea that it’s futile to try “to grow…instead of trying to connect.” Another is the advice of writing “like one person is listening. Write like they need it.” And keep showing up and keep saying something that actually matters to you. Also very good advice. My only question is this: How can you be so sure that “99% of writers never fulfill their potential?” Maybe they do, in their own way. Hard to know for sure. Maybe “fulfillment of potential” (or not) is dependent on which definitions and criteria you apply. As I see it, talent is just ONE aspect of “potential”. Tricky issue.
Writing into a void is the hardest part about writing. I take breaks and get discouraged but I always come back with more drive than that last time because just maybe this time my piece will resonate with someone out there.
This was just want I needed to read as a writer trying to become more creative and not get distracted by the lack of feedback or attention or even approval.
I'm sorry I'm one of those who read, like when it strikes a chord, and moves on with my day feeling a little lighter because of what you wrote. I don't say much, or often, so every time you see a like from me, please know you are doing a great job of lifting me up and inspiring me to, one day, start writing here on SubStack.
This is probably the best piece I've read of yours! Thank you very much, Matt.
This is a great piece Matt. I’m learning to practise consistency, and this will stay with me even more now. Thank you!
Thank you. I needed to hear this right now, today.
I'm a retired teacher who has a ton of old journals, bits and pieces of books written over the years, and I am working on a couple of middle grade chapter books right now. I'm part of a small support group online and getting a lot of good feedback, but I am getting stuck over and over again in my effort to make it publishable.
I've read so many wonderful books aloud to my students over the years. I've got to just grab my storytelling voice, picture those kids, and write.
There are a few things I really liked in your article. One is the idea that it’s futile to try “to grow…instead of trying to connect.” Another is the advice of writing “like one person is listening. Write like they need it.” And keep showing up and keep saying something that actually matters to you. Also very good advice. My only question is this: How can you be so sure that “99% of writers never fulfill their potential?” Maybe they do, in their own way. Hard to know for sure. Maybe “fulfillment of potential” (or not) is dependent on which definitions and criteria you apply. As I see it, talent is just ONE aspect of “potential”. Tricky issue.
Perfect timing. I'm starting some new things that means something to me, and I'm scared to death. Saving this as my little weekly pep talk. Thank you!
Writing into a void is the hardest part about writing. I take breaks and get discouraged but I always come back with more drive than that last time because just maybe this time my piece will resonate with someone out there.
This was just want I needed to read as a writer trying to become more creative and not get distracted by the lack of feedback or attention or even approval.
This was a great read. I’ve felt like that before - just giving up. But then, I would just be back writing again.
I screenshot that section on write to connect not for growth because that’s where the joy is for me.
I'm sorry I'm one of those who read, like when it strikes a chord, and moves on with my day feeling a little lighter because of what you wrote. I don't say much, or often, so every time you see a like from me, please know you are doing a great job of lifting me up and inspiring me to, one day, start writing here on SubStack.
Write like it’s to one person-
Great reminders Matt
Glad you continued to show up
Needed this. Thank you!
Great words, but at 54, I'm near the end of writing. I'm just too damn tired of the failure.
Thank you so much for sharing. Exactly what I needed to reframe my sad sack thoughts!