Writers Gotta Write
"You can be perfect,
or you can make art.
You can keep track of what you get in return,
or you can make art.
You can enjoy the status quo,
or you can make art."
Writing is an art -- and not one that earns you a bajillion dollars. Unless you're Ted Dekker. And even then I don't suppose he's really got a bajillion in the bank.
Anyway, the thing is that if you're writing to make money, you will likely be sorely disappointed with the compensation. But is money really the only valid reason to write?
I think not. In fact, I know it's not.
Validation for a writer comes in many different packages:
- signing with an agent
- having a publisher consider your full manuscript
- getting contracted with a traditional publisher
- winning a contest
- skyrocketing sales numbers
- great reviews
But those are all external rewards. A person who's got writing in their blood will write no matter what because the drive is internal. It's hard-wired. It's a need.
So if you're feeling the urge to write, don't let the lack of money, or prestige, or even the lack of kudos from your mama get you down. Writers write. It's just what they do.
