Being a Writer

     I have told people that I am a writer. I have told myself the same thing. I am a writer.

    I have written for a library newsletter, I have written stories, unfinished, and I have written letters.
It is hard to think like a writer. I really don't know anyone that profess to be writers. I really don't read like a writer.

    When reading like a writer you should ask how they got the words to go where they want and how they got the characters to do what they do. In all of the how-tos that I have read writers usually say that the book, story, article wrote itself. Now, what they mean by that is that when you write you have the facts, actions and reactions in mind, but the characters choose the where and when this all takes place.

    I was trying to figure this out while sitting one day, and decided that it is like a dress. When you ask a dressmaker how she does her work, she will tell you that you start with the basics. A pattern, thread, material and pins. Sometimes she knows how the dress will turn out, sometimes not. If you are a dressmaker, as opposed to a designer, you follow the instructions and the dress will pretty look like the picture on the pattern. If you are a designer, you start with an idea, and run from there.

    Writing is pretty much like that, too. You can start from a template and add your indredients and come out with a pretty good story. It may not be new, but will be unique. You learn what works and what doesn't, for you.

     However, practice makes perfect. No matter what you write.  Write.  Write. Write. And then write some more. In that writing, you have to edit. Make decisions on what works and what doesn't. What puts your dream out there.

    Now, if you will excuse me, I will go write some more. Have a great day and follow your dream.