"If you are not discouraged about your writing on a regular basis, you may not be trying hard enough. Any challenging pursuit will encounter frequent patches of frustration. Writing is nothing if not challenging."Source: Chip Scanlan's "'And I Quote': A Collection of Advice, Inspiration and Other Words of Wisdom on the Craft of Writing."
--Maxwell Perkins
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Quotation of the Week: Maxwell Perkins
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5 comments:
Great quote, Erika. I've certainly had those days; nice to think it's a good sign.
Maxwell knew what he was talking about! Good quote, Erika!
I have to agree. There is, however, one aspect not being mentioned. Anyone can become a competent writer, but if you are continually frustrated by your progress, you made need to assess the obstacles. Some people who profess a desire to be a writer don't really want it bad enough. Either they want something else, that they associate with being a writer, or
they have poorly defined goals. I've met plenty of people who've attended workshops and also have their share of talent, but they never complete projects or never submit. Yes, becoming a writer is a commitment, and it takes both desire and hard work. But if you find yourself frequently in a state of frustration or dejection, you should ask yourself why you want to be a writer, what your goals are, and what the obstacles to those goals seem to be. Get feedback. Talk it over. Think it over. And always explore which type of writing is the best fit for you. You may naturally drawn to and more
successful with journalism as opposed to literary fiction, more interested in blogging than composing poems. When the fit is right, you'll know. You'll feel it.
Great quote and I appreciate the comment from Otter7. I'm in the process of exploring my motivation for writing as I feel more frustrated than satisfied with the process. I'm leaning towards this just being a rough patch but it's freeing to take a step back and realize there's more out there than the novel I'm battling with. Thanks!
This is a great quote! So in other words if your feeling some frustration then its a good thing because it means your putting your 100% effort. Odd.....
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