By David L. Robinson
Several well-known authors have written about the “writer’s life.” For example, Mark Twain (Mark Twain on Writing & Publishing), Ray Bradbury (Zen and the Art of Writing), and Steven King (On Writing) are among the luminaries who have shared their wit and wisdom about the craft of writing.
I accept that my mini-memoir of how I developed as a writer won’t be as exciting as these other authors. However, some of my experiences should interest those courageous people in the early or mid-stage of establishing their writing career.
Plus, this retrospective (“an exhibition or compilation showing the development of the work of a particular artist over a period of time”) enables me to recount the various chapters of my writing life and evaluate whether or not the “original risk” was worth it. Consider it a personal/public self-examination.
*Taking the Risk—I waited too long to start, unlike many aspiring writers. I hadn’t written for the high school or college newspaper. I didn’t make a significant effort to develop writing skills during five years of college courses.
I can trace my “sudden” and initially quixotic desire to be a writer to three factors. First, I’m sorry to say I had no other career goals at the time. Thus, I wasn’t locked into a traditional mindset of civil service, business, teaching, or another worthy profession. More importantly, I was inspired by a senior-level course in American literature, reading Mark Twain, Bret Harte, Ambrose Bierce, Henry David Thoreau, and Stephen Crane. Third, there was an element of youthful (ignorant) naiveite, believing that I could start such an ambitious endeavor at such a late date. I hadn’t devoted sufficient attention to the challenges that awaited me. It was risky because I was embarking on a grand detour from the “accepted” career cycle, based on an inner voice that insisted I should take a chance on this romantic notion. Thus, I set off on the uncertain meandering path to becoming a writer without a parachute or life vest. But I was convinced it was a worthwhile risk.
+Observation: It’s always better to start an activity at a younger age. You have that much more time to develop the requisite skills and eventually determine if you possess the talent to become reasonably successful. This is true for those wishing to become a writer-author. However, many well-known artists and writers got a late start. If the desire is strong enough, it’s worth taking a risk—at whatever age.
*A Correspondence Course? —I wasn’t sure how to kickstart my writing adventure. I planned to enroll in a creative writing graduate program but had to wait a year because I hadn’t applied in time. Then one day, soon after college graduation, I saw a magazine ad for a journalism/fiction correspondence school. Perhaps this would provide me with the basics to get started. I didn’t broadcast my correspondence school plan to many. Friends who graduated at the same time were already pursuing their careers in business and other areas. I was waiting tables and beginning correspondent school studies. I suppose there was some apprehension about what others might think of my idealistic pursuit.
This was before online/internet coursework was available; school assignments were submitted and critiqued via snail mail. I started with basic journalism lessons and progressed to a short story apprenticeship. I dutifully followed my instructor’s directions, completed the lesson, and waited for his comments a couple of weeks later. After my half-year instruction, I received his note congratulating me on the satisfactory completion of the course. The instructor said I was ready to move ahead in my ambitious quest. I initially questioned whether the correspondence coursework provided enough of a foundation. But I later accepted that even if it was just a baby step in the right direction, I was on my way and without a return ticket.
+Observation: The best way to prepare for a writing career is to start taking the appropriate courses in middle and high school. Join the school newspaper and/or yearbook staff. Practice writing short stories. Become a reporter on your college newspaper. Get an internship at a community newspaper. But you can also take an extension/adult class or a correspondence course. Do whatever it takes.
*Concerned Parents—Our otherwise supportive parents were dubious about my writing future. They weren’t overly concerned that I had taken five years to graduate from college (having changed majors in my senior year). But a year or more later, they expected that I would have committed to some type of profession. They weren’t sure what a writer’s plan B/fallback position would be. Neither was I.
I wrote letters trying to explain that I needed the chance to try to find myself as a writer. They were rightfully worried that I wouldn’t enjoy the lonely writer’s life. They were loving enough not to question whether or not I had the talent. They waited patiently to see what my next move would be.
+Observation: The best parents are protective of their children; they worry about their current activities and future plans. If you’re serious enough about being a writer and gradually make sufficient progress, they will most likely accept your decision. Or at least not be overly critical. They aren’t necessarily second-guessing your abilities. They know how difficult it is to earn a living as a writer and don’t want you to struggle unnecessarily. Be patient.
*Grad School Reality Check—I faced a significant/major “wake-up” challenge in graduate school. Most of the students in the short story and other advanced seminars had been writing for years. I recall feeling intimidated as we read our latest stories and waited for the others to share their unfiltered and often harsh critiques. It was a humbling and necessary lesson. However, I learned much and enhanced the novice fiction skills gained from the correspondence program.
In a final class, a favorite instructor took me aside and said, “It’s not easy, is it? But you’ve got the basic skills; now you must work on your style.” It was just enough encouragement to make me think I would write some fiction worth reading one day. Of course, I knew it would be a marathon, with few shortcuts along the way.
+Observation: Depending on your (or your child’s) previous writing background, graduate level courses can be extremely valuable. Such grad level classes also can be intimidating. But critiquing another’s work and being likewise challenged, will help refine your writing style. Even more important, such advanced coursework can make you even more (or less) committed to pursuing the writer’s life.
*The Imposter Novelist—While immersed in graduate studies, waiting tables, and taking on other “odd” jobs, I continued experimenting with various writing techniques. One such exercise was a freshman novel on which a roommate and I collaborated. We based it on another friend’s sci-fi/fantasy concept of how a younger generation would excel in all areas and become influential leaders. This creative idea had great potential but was best suited for a more experienced writer.
The two amateurish novelists earnestly discussed the various plot twists and character traits. Of course, there was no question we were making progress. When friends asked about our latest work-related endeavors, it was easy to explain, “We’re writing a novel.” And these kind people accepted that without question. “How is the book coming along?” they would ask later. Our response was always, “It’s coming along (whatever that means).” It eventually became clear that we weren’t ready to take on such a literary challenge. My writing partner lost interest, and I vowed not to engage in such a haphazard project again. Still, it was one of those experimental exercises I considered an instructive course correction.
+Observation: Some will argue that it’s not wise to share your wildest dreams with too many people. Once you are on record as pursuing an especially ambitious goal, family members and friends will watch for meaningful signs of success. You might find this to be very stressful. On the other hand, announcing that you want to be a writer might provide an extra incentive. In this case, my temporary writing partner and I could have waited a little longer before “going public.” But you may have a different experience.
*Developing a Style—As an author once pointed out, writing as much as possible is critical to “get the bad stuff out.” It seems logical that each written exercise helps enhance your overall skill set. I was finding better ways to start and end a story or chapter and fine-tune a distinctive style that my grad school instructor had suggested.
I wrote short stories, longer novelettes, and various other pieces. I also read more, including favorites by Richard Brautigan, John Steinbeck, Ray Bradbury, Jerzy Kosinski, Kurt Vonnegut Jr., and others. I unconsciously emulated some of Brautigan’s style, although undoubtedly not as well. But I was definitely getting rid of the “bad stuff.” It was a lonely pursuit, but I wasn’t about to stop.
+Observation: Reading novels, short stories, articles and other material will help you develop an individual writing style. Read early American and contemporary authors, as well as the classics. Analyze differences in style among various authors. Evaluate what defines your writing style–including sentence length, word choice, and story structure. It’s also important to continue expanding your vocabulary.
*A Regular Writing Schedule–My writing output has fluctuated during the last 50 years. In the early period, I wrote at least 1,000 words daily. The NWPD (number of words per day) decreased when I was working full-time. I still managed to write every day, but not as much.
+Observation: It is essential that aspiring authors write daily, or nightly if you have another job. Whether you complete 1,000 or 5,000 words at one time, every sentence and paragraph will get you that much closer to developing a distinctive style that readers find interesting. Be disciplined in your approach. Avoid the writer’s block trap—when you feel incapable of creating and typing. If you get stuck on one story, start another. Don’t allow yourself to take an extended break because your idea/word basket is temporarily empty.
*Riding with the Moon Walker—I left the graduate studies womb to take my first “real” job—as a public relations writer for a non-profit health organization (Project Concern). It wasn’t an incredibly productive role as it included minimal training, which I certainly needed. I was given minor editorial tasks until one day, my supervisor said, “You’ll be accompanying Dr. Smith to Tijuana tomorrow.” The doctor was the medical head of the children’s hospital that the organization sponsored. I assumed my role was to observe and possibly write a feature article about what transpired. I didn’t know then that a more exciting passenger would be on that long drive—Edgar Mitchell, the astronaut who walked on the moon in February 1971. Our excursion was just a couple of years after his moonwalk, and he was likely looking for other ways to make a difference.
I listened more than I talked on our drive to the hospital. But later in the hospital cafeteria, Mitchell and I did chat a bit. I want to think we were engrossed in a riveting discussion that would provide me with some fascinating quotes and other insights for an article. But it was likely much less inspiring. Nevertheless, how many other fledgling writers have enjoyed such a road trip?
+Observation: Many successful authors have had to take a detour from their preferred path by accepting a “regular job.” Ideally, that work will involve some type of writing. It’s not giving up on the dream, because you will continue writing–in the morning, at night, and weekends. You might even ride with an astronaut or have another adventure.
*Write What You Know—Editors, teachers, and others often advise writers to “write what you know.” They mean that a story will be more authentic if based on a real-life experience. Also, you need to have various experiences—traveling, working odd jobs, consorting with exciting people, and embracing unique activities to develop a proper foundation. This is especially critical for those unable or unwilling to tap into their bank of imaginary story ideas.
Even as I developed a modest resume of mundane and unusual experiences (work as a census taker), I continued to let my imagination “run wild.” Not all these excursions were successful, with some too “far out” to write about. But enough of them were the suitable grist for what I considered readable stories. I continue to strive for a balance of experience and slightly tamed imagination.
+Observation: The more varied experiences you have, the fuller your idea bank will be. For example, traveling enables you to meet and share activities with interesting people, which may inspire you to create intriguing articles and/or short stories. Take advantage of opportunities to seek new experiences, as long as they are legal and reasonably safe. But don’t forget to let your imagination walk/run wild.
*The O.B. Book That Did Sell—One of the attributes young people share is a belief they can do almost anything. This is why a good friend (eventually becoming a successful author) and I thought we could write and sell a book about Ocean Beach, California. We wrote stories and took photos about life in the place we described as the Far End of America.
We also encouraged local businesses to place ads in our future publication, enabling us to afford the cost of self-publishing. We weren’t discouraged when the proprietor of a popular Ocean Beach bookstore said, “You’ll be lucky if you sell a couple of those books.” But we sold quite a few at various places, including several major San Diego bookstores. Later, when we returned to the OB book shop to see if he would sell them, the owner asked, “Why didn’t you ask me to place an ad?” When learning that we had offered him that chance, he smiled and said, “Just shows how much I know.”
+Observation: Self-publishing a book about Ocean Beach (or anywhere else) isn’t easy, especially if you’re in the early stage of developing as a writer. But if you have the chance to do something similar, I recommend you proceed with enthusiasm, knowing that it will be another building block in your quest. It helps to be slightly naïve, so you won’t be unduly influenced by those who question your success.
*Dad, Meet Ray Bradbury—I had the unique opportunity to meet/talk with Ray Bradbury on several occasions. One time my parents and I were at a reception that he also attended. I remember my dad introducing himself to Ray and saying, “My son wants to be a writer too.” Bradbury nodded and continued greeting other guests. I was only slightly embarrassed as I realized how sincere and accepting my dad was.
I had another chance to meet with Ray at a Burbank, California studio, where he was preparing his Leviathan 99 play. We talked for a while, and he gave me copies of the original script. I later sent him a note to request a copy of his W.C. Fields poem/narrative, which I heard he was writing. Ray wrote back explaining that he would send me a copy when the poem was complete. He also elected me to “the honorable Society of S.O.B.s to which W.C. elected me when I was 13.” It’s been 50 years, and I still have that framed letter on my office wall.
+Observation: While meeting and talking with well-known authors doesn’t necessarily enhance your talent (unless they’re willing to share practical writing advice), it can be a worthwhile event. If you’re really lucky, the author will be supportive and even offer a few tips. Plus, just hearing my father say “My son wants to be a writer too,” was an exceptional moment.
*Deadlines & Bylines—A short stint as a San Diego newspaper reporter afforded me the first chance to write for a measurable audience. Each week I wrote two or three long feature articles and assorted other news items. This wasn’t easy, as I had never faced such rigid deadlines. I was also forced to deal with some difficult stories. One was when I wrote about “the cost of dying,” which involved a trip to a local mortuary. I impulsively opened a door and walked in on the embalmer who was preparing an elderly, naked man. Another assignment required me to get a comment from the parents whose teenage daughter had just died in an automobile accident. They understandably were not receptive to my query.
On the plus side, I did benefit from having to write frequently and on deadline. I learned how to interview both verbose and taciturn subjects, from Presbyterian ministers and police chiefs to school superintendents and corporate CEOs. This valuable skill would be beneficial throughout my writing career. However, I didn’t retain my press credentials for long. The publisher agreed I had adequately fulfilled my role as a small-town scribe but lacked the aggressive personality that a tough investigative reporter needed. Unfortunately, we hadn’t discussed this requirement during my hasty job interview six months prior. I accepted this as a “life lesson” crucial to a writer’s development. I started back on my meandering chuckhole-filled road.
+Observation: Writing on deadline is one of the best learning curve lessons you can have. Even if a journalism career isn’t your long-term goal, you will be producing copy on a regular basis. There are many more options today, including online writing positions. Again, it all adds up.
*Everyone Can Write a Book—I learned early on that many people think they can write a book. I remember hearing friends and strangers comment, “You know, I could write a book,” and me thinking Why don’t you? “Anything I might have read?” was another frequent response when I mentioned a current writing project.
It was apparent that people generally consider being a writer “romantic.” Even if that entailed spending long days and nights hunched over a manual typewriter (no computers then).
+Observation: Novice/struggling authors may get a bit irritated when others claim they could write a book or a story. But don’t be upset. It’s a natural and well-intentioned comment. Better to respond, “I bet you do have a good story to tell. You should write it.”
*It Wasn’t a Rejection Letter—One of my first forays into magazine writing was a query I sent to an early edition of People Magazine. I suggested a profile on a talented San Diego-based artist/conceptual designer we called Maddog. He also was a good friend, so I was familiar with his artistic style and unique personality. My letter to People summarized his artistic achievements, which included a colorful Wiener Dog outfit for Wienerschnitzel “restaurant” greeters to wear, lifelike swordfish replicas, museum statuary, ceramics, and much more.
My letter may have overemphasized Maddog’s zaniness in addition to his considerable creative talent. The editor wrote back, asking for a bit more detail. His response to my query was like this: “Perhaps Maddog is a talented, creative artist…on the other hand, perhaps he is an attention-seeking loony; in which case, no thanks.” Maddog and I agreed that was the ideal reaction because he was both. I didn’t consider this to be the typical rejection letter. I probably didn’t follow through with the article because the editor seemed predisposed to thinking of him as a “loony.”
+Observation: Many successful authors have stories about receiving numerous rejection letters before selling their first story or article. The best ones are those that offer some encouragement or a content/style suggestion. Unlike previous years, there are fewer publishers willing to accept first-time authors. Also, queries and responses are usually done via email. You still be fortunate to receive some helpful feedback. But never get discouraged at receiving a rejection letter.
*Kid Lit Isn’t Easy—During the long process of finding my way as a writer, I was particularly focused on writing children’s stories. I probably developed that interest from having written brief vignettes with my toddler nephew. We would discuss a plot and character(s), and I would transcribe the notes. A favorite was “Boo-boo, the Pirate.” I wrote numerous unsold picture book-type stories and attended a children’s book writing conference. Many people imagine that it’s easy to write for children. But it’s not.
While not achieving the goal of publishing a picture book, I did have a few children’s stories produced for organizations where I worked. You most likely haven’t seen Simon the Grouch in Poor Man’s Meadow, Simon the Grouch: The Sun Shined in Poor Man’s Meadow, or Tyler Learns to Save. But I’m happy many people did read them so many years ago.
+Observation: It’s certainly possible to be successful writing for several different genres (children’s literature, mystery, science-fiction). But initially it may be best to concentrate on a specific area. That enables you to read, learn, and improve with that genre. Once you are comfortable with your writing style, you can always branch out.
*Bicentennial Bonanza—In May 1976, my girlfriend (later my loving wife) announced that her employer had requested she relocate to Michigan for an important assignment. She invited me to join her on this spontaneous adventure. It seemed like the ideal opportunity to gain more experience, but I was nervous about leaving. I had been working at the same newspaper for a year (my longest job to date), and the idea of quitting was another risk. But since the job wasn’t very satisfying, I reasoned there was almost nothing to lose and the potential of gaining some one-of-a-kind experiences about which I could write. So, we left San Diego early one May morning and began a unique Bicentennial summer adventure.
A cross-country trip offers numerous writing options. I wrote several travel pieces for a San Diego newspaper and a few articles for Michigan newspapers. I also chronicled our cross-country trip and beyond in Doing America: A Bicentennial Travelog. The latter involved interviewing colorful characters I met along the way, including a St. Louis, Missouri riverboat pilot; two Lima, Ohio firemen; Coors (Denver) brewery workers; Plymouth, Michigan residents; a Washington, D.C. bartender; and many others. This voyage definitely helped fill my experience ledger.
+Observation: It can be risky to take a long break from a job, relationship, and other responsibilities to travel. Yet the people and places you will see could make the trip worthwhile. The key is to balance the risk with the reward. Then make a decision and try not to have regrets later.
*Corporate writing—I realized (to my parents’ delight) that I could use some of my ever-expanding writing skills in a more commercial setting. Thus, I took my first corporate public relations job at the city’s leading savings and loan. I was responsible for writing and editing various internal/external publications, allowing me to interact with numerous company executives, including the president. One of my unique tasks was to write his monthly column for the employee magazine. Once a month, I would meet with my boss to discuss “what he (the president) is thinking of this time,” based on the company’s programs and current business trends. I would take a few notes and write the column, which the president would then approve for his byline.
I learned that this seemingly minor essay could have a significant impact. One day I was in the elevator when several top execs entered and began discussing current events. “Did you see what Kim (the president) wrote this month? Very well written and so timely,” said one. “Yes, one of his best,” another agreed. I smiled broadly but decided it wasn’t proper to comment or laugh.
+Observation: I will forever be grateful to the man (and friend) who hired me at my first corporate position. I traveled to different branches, interviewed some unique people (including top executives), and was given great latitude in helping to develop different publications. Once again, it proves that there is not necessarily one straight line to achieving your writer goals.
*Helmets, Rods, and WD-40—I had subsequent jobs as an account executive and manager for several major public relations agencies. I wrote promotional material for such prominent clients as Bell Helmets, WD-40, Daiwa Fishing Tackle, and Polo-Ralph Lauren stores. This was a significant addition to my writing resume, but not overly inspiring. Yet I didn’t take this period of writing corporate promotional material for granted. It was another valuable step in my writer’s journey. It also emphasized that while my quest to be a good writer wasn’t over, the original risky decision was working out okay.
+Observation: Writing news releases and other promotional material is honorable work and adds to your resume. (Dr. Seuss got his start as an ad copyrighter.) Just because you consider yourself an “author,” don’t be dismissive of the less creative output.
*It May Be Who You Know—During the early phase of my writing journey (and once later as well), I received a few potentially beneficial “referrals.” These were introductions from a friend or relative to someone connected to the publishing world. These contacts included a former chief editor of a book publisher, an artist who illustrated a famous author’s books, a successful author of young adult fiction, and a literary agent. I subsequently either met with or sent these people a children’s book manuscript or something else I had written. All of them were friendly, but not overly encouraging. They offered advice but not an offer to help me get published. Of course, the manuscript I sent them to review was my best at that time, but not worthy of being published. Maybe I should have waited until I had more experience. But the opportunity might have been lost, so I have no regrets. It was another learning experience.
+Observation: Hopefully, if you have a similar opportunity, you will have a polished book, article, or other manuscript that is deemed publishable. But if you aren’t quite ready, it’s still worthwhile to make the initial contact. You can share your writing at a later time. You can’t necessarily plan these informal referrals; they may arise when you least expect them.
*Fishing and Writing With Dad—One of my cherished experiences was helping my father produce a new edition of the fly-fishing book he had written in 1942. I had contacted the publisher, who agreed that an update of the original book would be worthwhile. Of course, my dad was surprised that there was interest in a second edition but pleased that I had gifted him with another author opportunity of his own. This edition would add a new element—my father teaching a younger person, his grandson (my nephew), how to fish.
A key benefit of the process was the added time we spent together—writing, photographing my father and nephew, and editing the updated manuscript. It wasn’t a best seller, but in addition to the substantial advance ($500), the satisfaction of working with my father was “worth the price of admission.”
+Observation: Sometimes you have to create your own writing opportunities. Perhaps you can help a parent/grandparent write and self-publish their life story. Always look for different ways to express yourself.
*Magazine Pages—I have written for several local and national magazines throughout my long editorial adventure. It started with a series of articles (communal living, beekeeping, protecting historical properties, and other topics) for a San Diego monthly. I was later a regular columnist for San Diego Home and Garden. In addition, I wrote articles on environmental and other topics for such diverse publications as National Parks, Wildlife Conservation, Country Journal, WildBird, California Highways, Living Bird Quarterly, The Science Teacher, and Arts & Activities Magazine.
This was a great situation. I was able to write on important subjects and hopefully helped inform and persuade people to get involved with a specific issue. I recently reread some of these long-ago articles (and the earlier newspaper bylines), and am proud of that phase of my “writer’s calling.”
+Observation: There are fewer magazine writing outlets for writers in 2023 compared to 1990 and earlier. But if you look carefully, you’ll find that some exist. In addition, there are many online publications. You can also start your own blog on a specific subject. Attempt more varied writings projects and you’ll become a more polished writer.
*Passion Projects—By this time, I had written myriad articles, stories, proposals, and other material. Whenever possible, I developed personal “passion” projects, such as the San Diego’s Endangered Species booklet. This would not have been possible if I hadn’t decided to become a writer. I wouldn’t have the experience or confidence to write and produce this special edition for schools, environmental groups, the San Diego Zoo, and others.
The booklet included profiles and illustrations of the threatened and endangered species in San Diego County, along with quotations from various experts. As I developed a list of notables to quote, I had an inspiration. Why not ask Dr. Seuss for a comment? After all, he was the well-known author of The Lorax and many other wonderful books. Realizing he was pretty busy and might not respond, I sent him a letter outlining the booklet’s purpose and my desire to include him. You can imagine my surprise and delight when I received an autographed copy of The Lorax and his note: “Dear David Robinson, Thank you for inviting me aboard your very important publication. I hope the following quote will be of some use to you: ‘You can’t save the Truffula Trees or the Humming Fish or the Brown Bar-ba-loots. They’re gone forever. But this vital booklet tells you what you can save and must save in San Diego. Dr. Seuss’ With all best wishes on the great job that you’re doing. Theodor S. Geisel.”
+Observation: Be on the lookout for the more unusual, unplanned projects. They may not earn much (if any) money, and could interrupt your other creative writing plans. But they might be some of your most satisfying writing. A book about Ocean Beach and an endangered species booklet weren’t on my original author bucket list, but they were exceptionally rewarding. I’m so glad that I took the slight detour to complete these projects.
*Writer and Editor—Serving as the founding editor of a national magazine was another highlight of my eclectic writing portfolio. It started when the founder of a mortgage banking association asked if I had any experience producing a monthly publication. I assured him that I had such a publishing background (fondly recalling my editorship of two company magazines then referred to as “house organs”) and could surely help get this started. I had to do some quick research to fill in the gaps in my magazine publishing experience but managed to provide the necessary documents to convince him I should be the editor. I wasn’t about to let this serendipitous challenge slip away.
What started as a small California association member publication eventually became a leading nationwide financial services magazine. I edited it and also wrote columns, articles, and other material. The mortgage banking material wasn’t necessarily exciting, but the feedback was first-rate. I attended numerous trade shows during the next 17 years. I met hundreds of loyal readers who commented, “The magazine helped get me started in the profession,” and “I wouldn’t have been as successful as I am without it.” I never got that feedback writing press releases about motorcycle helmets or fishing rods.
+Observation: Aspiring and veteran writers are fortunate to have a supportive and vocal audience. It is a great opportunity to interact with readers who appreciate what you have written and/or edited. Writing newspaper or magazine feature articles may not be your chosen genre. But don’t miss the chance to write for a specific profession or wider audience that will offer such positive feedback. And editing a publication will further help refine your own writing.
*Plotting Along—I can modestly claim to have had several great ideas for novels during my circuitous writing life. For example, one of the first was Nightshade’s Halloween, a mystery set in a Northeastern seaside village. Another was the story of a bookshop owner who found a series of clues that would take him on a cross country journey to find a partially finished Mark Twain manuscript. There were a couple of other “masterpieces.” The problem was that I started writing without a complete chapter by chapter outline. I had the premise, a beginning, and middle, but not the end. I wandered around, lost my way, and never finished these books. It was a frustrating lesson in story structure.
+Observation: Developing a distinct writing style is essential to help you develop an audience. But knowing the best ways to establish a workable plot is also paramount. You need a map of where your story is headed so that you don’t hit a roadblock in the middle. It’s better to spend extra prep time to develop a complete outline before starting to write. You still will make inevitable adjustments along the way, but at least you’ll have the directions to get there.
*Writing Eulogies & Sgt. Preston—When my father passed away at age 75, I was bereft and looking for a way to ease the pain. As we helped my mother prepare for his memorial service, I decided to write my dad’s eulogy. Family members agreed and contributed their ideas as well. I was quite proud of this essay, which combined humorous elements and poignant memories. But who would read it at the service? I certainly wouldn’t be able to get through without sobbing. After much discussion, my mother suggested Richard Simmons, the former lead character in the 1950s TV drama Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, who was a neighbor in their community. We knew he could read it with passion and authority. He read the first couple of pages as planned but then began crying.
I later wrote eulogies for an aunt, my mother, and my stepfather. It wasn’t a specialty for which I had prepared. Yet it was a very personal and rewarding experience.
+Observation: I agree that most writers don’t consider preparing eulogies to be a primary goal. However, it is nice to be able to write about people that you love, rather than have a minister or someone else create all of the words. It could be one of your most satisfying author achievements.
*A Ghostwriting Trifecta—I had been writing articles, newsletters, and other material for various companies when the CEO of a sizeable Michigan-based mortgage company asked if I might be able to help him write a sales motivation book. He briefly outlined his unique background, including how he had emigrated from Ukraine when he was l6, had a difficult time in high school because of his language barrier, later failed at his first two attempts as a mortgage broker, and then turned it around to become a top producing loan officer and the CEO of his own company. It was quite a story.
I sent him a rough outline, and we started to work. It wasn’t easy, as our long-distance telephone conversations were brief, and he was often distracted by employee questions and other interruptions. Each week we would talk, I would take notes and write, and then email him the latest chapter for his critique. He would often change the book’s overall focus and second-guess what we had already finished. Yet we eventually finished the manuscript, and he sent me the first copy of his book with the following handwritten inscription: “Even though the book bears my name, you are deserving of the credit for turning my dream into a reality…You have done an amazing job bringing my story to life…None of this would have been possible without you.” It was an unusual working relationship. I would be his ghostwriter for three award-winning books without us ever meeting face-to-face.
+Observation: Ghostwriting may not give you top line credit (other than an acknowledgement), but it definitely gives you valuable writing experience and can open the doors to other opportunities. It can also be financially rewarding. As you continue writing novels, stories, and other special projects, you might also develop a ghostwriting niche.
*Short Story Collection—I had started several novels and completed a few. Each was better than the last. I had written articles and various other pieces, so I wasn’t disappointed in my overall output but also realized something was missing. I needed to go full circle, returning to my love of fiction. I began writing short stories and some short-short stories.
I wouldn’t be satisfied this time unless there was an audience for these vignettes. Self-publishing had long been referred to as “vanity publishing,” a derogatory term for the alternative to “traditional” book publishers. But more recently, various forms of publishing for sale on Amazon, Kindle and other formats have become widespread and respected. Nearly a year after I started writing, The Nowhere Novel and 17 Other Short and Shorter Stories was ready. Of course, I was excited to receive the first copies of this highly anticipated collection. Family, friends, and others offered complimentary reviews, which was a most welcome royalty.
+Observation: If you are passionate about a specific genre, don’t give up until you have accomplished your goal. Perhaps you want to write a science fiction novel or a collection of essays, but have been delayed because of your advertising copyrighting or newspaper reporting career. If you can’t interest a “traditional” publisher in your project, consider working with a reputable self-publishing company. Do whatever it takes.
*Parental Approval—My father passed away knowing I had been successful, albeit at a slower pace than he might have liked. Of course, I co-authored the Ocean Beach book and helped him republish his flyfishing book. He also witnessed my growth as a writer for company publications and public relations agencies.
However, he hadn’t seen me as a magazine editor or author of my short story collection. I believe he had stopped worrying that I was destined for an adulthood of worry and not living up to my potential. My mother lived another 25 years and was thus able to know that I had achieved other writing successes.
+Observation: Hopefully, your parents, siblings, or other special people will be around when you achieve some or all of your writing goals. But if not, believe that they would be happy as long as you’re contented.
*Risk versus Rewards—After retiring from my client writing/editing and environmental education posts, I continued to be busy writing fiction and pursuing other interests. I’ve also had time to reflect on my life accomplishments. Was I satisfied? The bigger question is, what if I had taken a different direction: worked in business or civil service, for example, rather than taking that original risk to “be a writer.” There would have been more job and financial security. I wouldn’t have encountered as many bumps in the road.
I had to look closely to confirm that the risk I took 50-plus years earlier was worth it. On the upside, I had:
*succeeded at several corporate communications positions,
*written a book with a good friend,
*helped my father republish his fishing book,
*written numerous newspaper and magazine articles,
*produced the endangered species booklet,
*been a ghostwriter for three books,
*helped start and write/edit a popular magazine,
*published a book of short stories, and
*interviewed hundreds of interesting people I would never have met as a salesman or teacher.
I wish I had written more fiction during these 50 years. But I was also busy with my professional writing jobs and teaching a writing course. So, I don’t lament the modest output of stories and novels.
I’m not done yet. I am currently laboring over two novels. But if for some reason, writing was no longer possible, I can genuinely say that I’m happy for taking the “road less traveled.” It was a huge challenge, but I am fulfilled knowing that I didn’t leave the meandering pathway.
+Observation: There are different ways to measure your success as a writer. Perhaps your talent and good fortune have enabled you to author a best-selling novel. Or you’ve written a series of well-received magazine articles. But give yourself credit for other achievements as well. It’s possible that you haven’t yet reached your most ambitious writing goals. You also may have to adjust your long-term aspirations. Remember that writing for your church bulletin, alumni newsletter, or community website are also worthy accomplishments. It’s wise to be flexible in balancing your initial writing plans with the challenges you will face.
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