After avidly writing fiction for the past ten years and being part of Odyssey for most of my college career, I've come to realize that my identity as a writer defines me more than I used to think it did. My fellow wordsmiths know that there all kinds of writers: screenwriters, poets, novelists (this is me,) writers of fiction and non-fiction, fantasy writers, songwriters, the list keeps on going.
One of the things I adore about being a writer is connecting to other creative types who share the same passion for stories that I do. Despite our preferences in books or writing styles, there are a few traits all of us tend to share. Since creative types often attract more logical, introspective individuals, our partners are often perplexed by the habits and quirks that accompany writers. Thankfully, I'm here to help you out. Before you start dating that guy or girl who has, no matter how nonchalantly, told you that they like to write, familiarize yourself with these tips:
1. Be Careful Before Comparing Us To Other "Writers"
Lots of people say they want to write a book. It's annoying when a peer asks me what I do in my free time and they reply, "Oh, I like writing too. But I've never finished anything." Yeah, anyone can start writing something, sweetie. You aren't a writer cause you spit out one poem in high school. Don't compare your half-hearted efforts to the toil it takes to write a whole book. It's offensive...
2. You Might End Up In Our Story
Calm down, we aren't Taylor Swift. While we certainly aren't dating you for literary material, you could end up becoming that. It isn't personal, we just see the potential for a new and better character in every person. It's a compliment, kind of.
3. We Probably Won't Let You Read Our Writing
It doesn't matter how close we are to you, allowing anyone in our lives to see our writing is a big stress fest for us. Consider it an honor if your boyfriend or girlfriend gives you a glimpse into their private projects. When we let someone see our writing, we're basically showing them a secret portion of our mind. Even when we are confident in our work, it requires a lot of coaxing before you become co-editor. Brownies and begging certainly help.
4. Don't Warn Us About The Job Market
Trust me, we have all researched the likelihood of being writers for a living. We know how much it costs to self-publish and how hard it is to be accepted by a traditional publisher. We don't continue writing because we think it's a stable vocation, we do it for love of the craft. But, if one of us were to become the second billionaire author behind Miss Rowling, well, we wouldn't complain.
5. We Are Hard On Ourselves
Despite your best efforts at flattering, we will never believe that our writing is perfect or fully ready. We tend to be our harshest critiques; we've learned well how to "kill our darlings." Even if we never let you read our writing until it is available on book store shelves, we still need your encouragement.
Don't let this article scare you, most writers are really delightful humans. Who knows, if you stick around, maybe you'll join one of our book clubs for the snacks if nothing else.
