Hello, writers,
“While it is impossible to make a competent writer out of a bad writer, and while it is equally impossible to make a great writer out of a good one, it is possible, with lots of hard work, dedication, and timely help, to make a good writer out of a merely competent one.”
In the words of my pal Aaron, "I want to resist the notion that Faulkner came out of the ground."
In other words, even Faulkner had to learn craft.
During this discussion, I had a realization: Even though I use them anytime I write, I can't trace the lessons I've learned about craft to particular writing teachers/professors.
But I do remember--and draw from when I need a boost--specific moments of encouragement from those writing teachers.
And I'm guessing you do, too.
Discussion questions include:
- Do you think being offered encouragement can be as important as learning craft?
- Do you agree with this Stephen King line? Why or why not?
- What lessons about the craft of writing do you remember learning from specific teachers/professors?
And in the spirit of encouragement: If you know a writer who's feeling down, give him or her a boost. We've all needed one before, and we'll all need one again.
