What makes a writer a 'writer'?

[firstacts]

I'm certain this has probably been covered elsewhere on these boards, but since I'm new...

There have been many aspiring writers that have asked me (although I'm not sure why they do that), "How do you know when you're a writer?"

There are certainly a lot of ways to answer that question.

1) When you complete a course.

2) When you are finally published.

3) When your first book can be found on-line or in stores.

4) When you're recognized by your peers.

HOGWASH

I am firmly convinced that you are a writer when you can do no less than write. When you have a passion to paint with words. Sometimes it's not so beautiful in the end, but you learned something and you write on.

There are many who will attempt to kill your dreams and tell you that you can't be a writer. Don't listen to them. If God calls you to write - then write first and foremost for Him. Let Him determine where, how and if your material ever sees the light of day.

Motivation for writing is most simply defined in one of three ways...

1) I write because I want to make a living at it.

2) I will make my work available to others, but I would like to be paid for something someday.

3) I don't care how it's used or who uses it, I just want to write. Money isn't associated with my desire to write.

Again these are simple defintions of motivation and frankly, there is nothing wrong with any of them.

From personal experience I will say that if God tells you to write, you will never be satisfied until you do.

Friends, family, and even your spouse may never understand the need to write, but writing can be an act of worship to the God who created everything with "Words".

If you got this far - accept my thanks for reading and I hope you are encouraged somehow in all of this.

Write On,

Glenn :)

[AngelAzariah]

firstacts,
_____Nice words, I can't complain about your writing here, other then the 'I God' typo. :rolleyes: If I was going to ask a qustion, it would be what are the names of your books and who published them. Though what is really concerning me now, is if I should wait on a publisher or just buy a book binding machian with taxes this year. :confused:

[firstacts]

Angel,

Wait on God - He might bring a publisher or a really good deal on a printer. :p

Only He knows for sure where anyone's writings will go - they might just be a fragrant offering to Him alone.

The tough question is "Am I okay with that?"

Glenn :)

Oh...

I've mentioned this elsewhere, but...

Book # 1
The Trail Stopped Here - CMI Publishing (Our ministries imprint)

Book # 2
Fellowship of the Forgotten - Publish America (I know I've heard some bad things, but to date they've been good to me)

Book # 3
Coming To Terms - Publish America (Due mid year 2005)

I will probably look to a different publisher for my next projects.

[Rebecca]

Very Encouraging. Thanks for posting this! :)

Rebecca

[AngelAzariah]

_____Nice picture Glenn. :p I couldn't help but go out and look up stuff about you. Try going by www.souljoyrecords.com There is a pic there of my family, myself, and it's my dads site.

[firstacts]

Your daughter almost looks like she's trying to find those eyebrow piercings. :eek:

Good looking family. Thanks for the link.

G :)

[AngelAzariah]

_____Thanks.

[Sidewinder4]

Is it curoisity? Is it oportunity? Is it ability? No. Action makes a person a reader. The first word I learned to read in First Grade is 'Tip,' a dog's name. See Tip run. Tip has fun. Jane runs too. How about you? What makes a poet a poet? Action. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld..." Jesus sets our example, action. Words are containers. Pour out your words mix them as paints. See, feel, emote, create, the page is your canvas, the Word your paint, your faith is your brush. take back the arts. May the peace Of Christ reign in your heart, Sidewinder4

[humblegyrl]

Money doesn't motivate me to write, either. (Though it would be nice to be paid someday.) I write to vent my frustrations. Sometimes I am able to express my feelings better through writing. If by some chance, my writing makes a difference in another person's life -- EXCELLENT! It would show that my ability can be used for something other than personal benefit.

[Merry]

Just caught this FirstActs, nice work!

[mdmcginn]

A writer is someone can't stop writing and is not easily satisfied. Wiriting is a trade, a craft. You have to pay your dues.

[Nighthawk]

There are many who will attempt to kill your dreams and tell you that you can't be a writer. Don't listen to them. If God calls you to write - then write first and foremost for Him. Let Him determine where, how and if your material ever sees the light of day.


There are those who will attempt to kill your dreams intentionally and quite unintentionally. It's always a good idea to distinguish between the two, but as a rule, even the nastiest editor is in the latter catagory. The rejection slips really aren't personal.

[sister Lillian]

Did somebody say typo?

[KO'Leary]

:) Glenn,
Your thoughts are so right on! At all stages writers need encouragement. Thank you for sharing your positive reflections with us.
Karen :)

[JCsAngelPen]

if you pick a pen or type it on the computer...and you create words together...you're a writer!

[writefx]

I've been writing on and off for more years that I'd care to mention. It started with writing for pleasure and I got published many times - then when I wrote with the sole motive to sell I started getting very unmotivated to the point where I gave up.

How many times have you told someone that you were writing and they have asked if you've been published then you reply 'Oh, it's only for fun. I'll never get published of course'. Yet you love writing and you know that people don't take you seriously unless you are published. Even then they can be dismissive of you because of envy.

I now think that a writer is someone that is compelled to write regardless if anyone reads their work or not.

[Lighthousebob]

Well then.... I guess I am a writer. (Smiles) Hey, I liked the big Hogwash! Very Encouraging and encouragement as a writer is certainly something that I can never get enough of. Thanks for sharing. -Bob

[lionsforjesus]

You helped me (with God's help) to know what I am pursueing is where my heart is for sure. With God's help I will strive to write and make a living.
Thank you for your encouragement to all of us on this God blessed site. :) :) :) :D !thumbsup!

[Shekinah Glory]

I heard that what you desired to do or actually did when you were 10, might be the purpose for your life. I find it hard to express my inner feelings verbally, so I do it by writing. Readers may not know that is actually how I feel or what is inside of me and that is the beauty. Knowing that people need to read what I write....and if they don't read, its ok because someone out there will be affected in a positive way, even if it is 1 person.

[whitehawke]

I have written since I was little. My dad left home when I was only 7. I worked out my anger on the written page. For many years my art and writing were stormy, then one morning my dear precious Lord entered my heart and suddenly I could write no more. All the anger and pain was covered with His Blood, His love. I had written because I had to write. It had been my safety line until that day. Now God is my safety line. After He came in, I couldn't write for about 12 or 14 years. He turned my life around. He healed my wounds. I could have returned to writing sooner, I'm sure, but I was afraid of the old ways. Then one night I had a dream and the next day I decided to do a drawing to remember the dream by. The dream became a drawing and then a novel began to grow. My Lord hadn't taken away my writing, He had begun a new work on my hardened heart. As I wrote the novel, His healing flowed.
I write because He loves me and He is healing me.
LOL, sorry if this dosen't fit into this thread, but it seemed that I had to write it.

[agentangel]

Amen!!thumbsup!


I'm certain this has probably been covered elsewhere on these boards, but since I'm new...

There have been many aspiring writers that have asked me (although I'm not sure why they do that), "How do you know when you're a writer?"

There are certainly a lot of ways to answer that question.

1) When you complete a course.

2) When you are finally published.

3) When your first book can be found on-line or in stores.

4) When you're recognized by your peers.

HOGWASH

I am firmly convinced that you are a writer when you can do no less than write. When you have a passion to paint with words. Sometimes it's not so beautiful in the end, but you learned something and you write on.

There are many who will attempt to kill your dreams and tell you that you can't be a writer. Don't listen to them. If God calls you to write - then write first and foremost for Him. Let Him determine where, how and if your material ever sees the light of day.

Motivation for writing is most simply defined in one of three ways...

1) I write because I want to make a living at it.

2) I will make my work available to others, but I would like to be paid for something someday.

3) I don't care how it's used or who uses it, I just want to write. Money isn't associated with my desire to write.

Again these are simple defintions of motivation and frankly, there is nothing wrong with any of them.

From personal experience I will say that if God tells you to write, you will never be satisfied until you do.

Friends, family, and even your spouse may never understand the need to write, but writing can be an act of worship to the God who created everything with "Words".

If you got this far - accept my thanks for reading and I hope you are encouraged somehow in all of this.

Write On,

Glenn :)

[KO'Leary]

Hi Everyone,

I just thought I'd share something I once wrote for a writer's group newsletter. Many in the group had not been published. Hope you like it.

We are Writers

No other form of communication has the staying power of the written word. Thus we polish our craft.

We are writers. Published or unpublished, we have been given a special gift. With that gift, we have the chance to affect lives.

It may be a card or a letter of encouragement to a single friend or a book that will change the lives of millions. Each has purpose; each has meaning, not to be diminished.

Best wishes to all of you with your writing.

Karen !thumbsup!

[AngelAzariah]

_____Och, this thread is nearly a year old. Maybe all threads five months old should be locked into the arcives.

[Sidewinder4]

Wrought by thought, ink and deed.
Reality, originality both need
In word in act a seed
To come to be in
Eternity
Really? Yes, get the lead out. Marks on paper, go.

[ibrederu]

how cool! i love that poem.

[Kevin11]

Angel, I wouldn't lock any thread in the archives if its still providing others with inspiration. These are good words by firstacts and the thread was very interesting to me, a new member. Probably the best I've read yet. Isn't your suggestion sort of like saying we shouldn't read anything over a year old? Good writing endures, and so should good threads.

[They]

I've never imagined not writing. I can't not write and have been doing so since I was about 5 or 6. Not always the best of work (and imo, none are any good) but from time to time something is inspiring to others. Sure, I'd like to be published, and am working to that end. I'd like to be able to write all the time as an income, but let's be realistic. It may not happen. Writing is like breathing for me, and I imagine for many of you as well. Stop writing, and people know something is wrong. At work, I used to entertain my drivers with my writings. On several jobs I've been told to stop working and start writing. To date, not much has come of it except the realization that I, above all else, am a writer.

[ibrederu]

I call myself a writer but I don't know if I am. I don't write often. Writing takes alot of patience I think and that's something I don't always have a lot of. That's the main reason I haven't finished this book I started. I've written alot of short stories. Usually really goofy stuff. I like to bring inanimate (sp?) objects to life. I also write poems. I've written alot of them. Usually not very good. I've only written one that I'd say was any good and that's only because I shared with a friend and I got alot of positive feedback. I like writing letters to friends or writing on message boards and things like that. Personal things like that are my favorite. I'm shy but I can put my thoughts together better when I write them instead of over the phone or something. Anyway, that's all I have to say.

STeph

[Annie D]

I decided long ago that as long as lives were being changed through my writing, that was what it was all about. True, it is nice to get the check in the mail but I get so much more out of getting that phone call or that email of how a life has been changed through my book. I have truly been blessed by many. Recently, I had a missionary from Hong Kong contact me and tell me how they are using my book in their church and a Filipino woman wrote me and told me how my book changed her life. I had no idea that my book would reach Hong Kong. But God sees the big picture. Sometimes we will never know how many are changed through the words that God writes through us.

[Kaylyn63]

"Friends, family, and even your spouse may never understand the need to write, but writing can be an act of worship to the God who created everything with "Words"." - FirstActs (Sorry, I don't know how to use the quote thing yet - it seemed it was inserting the entire post)

FirstActs,
This is absolutely beautiful. I had never thought of my writing as an act of worship before. Amazing. Thank you so much for this.

I always struggle with the idea of calling myself a writer. Somewhere I read a quote by Truman Capote - "That's not writing, that's typing." - or something like that. It has always haunted me. Even becoming a member of this site was intimidating to me. I feared everyone would see straight away through me and echoes of "Poser!" kept bouncing through my mind. Yet, I haven't read any post that sounds judgemental in the least. This particular post has greatly encouraged me, so once again I say thank you! =]

[Sidewinder4]

Who me?
Right there
In an e-mail,
THE LIVING TALISMAN query worked.
"Enclose proposal."
'R' i excited?

Yup.

Now I must type more answers. "Outline a plan for selling your book." OK? Hummm? Wash out my ears and pray!
What does 'Y-N-W' spell?

You're next.

[Weenokee]

I have always enjoyed writting. Although, it took many years to actually view myself
as a writter. I have written many short stories, have started numerous books, and
when I was younger, wrote alot of poetry. But still couldn't grasp the concept that I really
was a writter. I use to tell people, that I like to pretened that I could write, that way,
I wasn't judged so harshly. But the truth is, I am a writter. That's what God made me.
It's not just what I do but what is inside me that makes that statement true. It is a
part of me, and when I begain to truly see myself as a writter, talking back to the
self doubt that had held me still all thoes years, it felt like the chains fell off of me.
It was like coming home again after years of being away.Paper no longer intimidates
me, it's white quietness hushes to the pencil that now dances to the echoes of
my thoughts.....

[KO'Leary]

Well said Lisa. Best wishes to everyone with their writing.

Karen :)

[Merry]

Thought I'd bump this thread of Glenn's. It's a good one

[They]

Q: How does one not get discouraged after their work is torn apart by those who read parts of it or those who seem to want to put thier own "voice" into someone elses work? Having your work torn to shreds is to be expected I guess, but how does one not become discouraged by what seems to be constant beration?

[Tim Lamb]

Thank you Merry, I think this would encourage any aspiring writer. I think you bumped it up just for me. I have written most of my adult life. Early stuff no one has ever seen, I was confused so it was too. Even now, life is as confusing as ever but what inspires me is basic and simplistic, and so is most of my writing, but still I am compelled to write and God has given me a place to share it.
Anyone could write what I write, but God has given me the job. The best thing I have learned here is that I need to work on basic skills, to make what I write easier to read. But I have been made aware that not everyone is going to appriciate what I have to say, but the Lord inspires me and I must not stop saying it.
I think I expected to much from this site. I really don't fit in here. I need to express myself and ask questions and talk things out, I found this is not the place for that. When I have tried to be deep I have found confrontation and missunderstanding. When I try to pass on my simple message of growth and inspiration, I am ignored.
There are some beautiful people here, and i will be back from time to time. But i have found this to be more of a distraction from my writing than encouraging,
God Bless You All!
Tim Lamb

[Emory May]

Angel
I write books and sell them to the school system here in Fiji as reading material. So, I have 1000's of books, stacked all over my house waiting for a sale. I found Lulu.com in the states and while the price per book is a little higher, I have no storage fees or books stacked all over the house. I have found they work very good for me. Perhaps you have already looked at them, but thought I would mentione it. I have five books in print on Lulu and have been very pleased, so far. God bless.

[Jerrbert]

Q: How does one not get discouraged after their work is torn apart by those who read parts of it or those who seem to want to put thier own "voice" into someone elses work? Having your work torn to shreds is to be expected I guess, but how does one not become discouraged by what seems to be constant beration?

They, there is no easy way to get through that. My father is a watercolor artist. He has painted for more years than I have been alive and in the last ten years, he has been very discouraged because many people will come to him and tell him how much they like his paintings, but no one will purchase them.

I may have a biased opinion, but I really love my dads’ work. He has a gift for drawing and an eye for color. He was so discouraged at one time that he gave up painting and went back to school. He thought that maybe with a degree in art would in some way either validate that he was an artist or would give him more to work with (technique-wise).

He has since been painting for himself. He soon found out that the degree really did nothing for him beyond a few techniques that he now uses.

The point is that he needed to work through the discouragement that he was feeling. I believe that our family helped him with that by giving his work the praise that it deeply deserves, but in the end, it was up to him to decide how much emphasis he was going to place on other peoples opinions.

My father still paints wonderfully, he always will.

For me, peace comes with my God and savior. The questions then becomes, will you allow Gods peace to be rule your work for Him, or other peoples opinions?

[Emory May]

They
I understand what you mean when you talk about being torn apart, but that is part of the world in which we function. I began writing when I was in the 7th grage, (Age 12) and have had enough rejection slips to walpaper Windsor Castle. I know that a lot of the problems are that they agent or publisher, simply did not understand what I was saying because they are of a different mind set. They want your story to say a certain thing, a certain way and if it doesn't then it gets rejected.
My only suggestion is to toughen up your skin and hang in there. Listen to their comments, accept the good ones, dump the bad ones but write the story you want to tell, the way you want to tell. Good luck and may God bless.!thumbsup!

[Jess]

Hi - I hope you don't mind if I join in here. I'm the queen of discouragement. When I read a wonderfully written book, I get excited and wish I could write that well. When I read a badly written book, I get scared to death, and think - Oh, Lord... what if I have a book accepted and it's as bad as this one. What if the editors get careless... the way they did with this one. Stupid, huh? To allow discouragement to grab hold of me just because I read a badly written book? And you know, there are a lot out there.
Like you, though, I get very discouraged when I get a bad critique (like I did today) or when I get a rejection, like I did a few weeks ago, or when I enter a contest and the three judges have comments that don't make sense to me or conflict with each other. But awhile back, I was reading over some old rejection slips, and I learned a valuable lesson: they made sense. I even found a few comments that sound more like compliments than criticims - why didn't I read them that way years ago? What I got all upset about back then actually makes sense today. I see that their suggestions were actually good ones but I was too proud and too much of a know-it all, to give those comments serious thought. Now, I feel as if I've wasted a lot of time by not taking advantage of some of those agent/editor/crit partner comments -- even worse, I'm doing the same thing today that I did back then. Thinking I know what's best for my story. And I do know what's best. It's my story, my voice and my idea - I'll do it the way I want. It might not sell-it may never get pubbed, but it will always be mine.
Let's make a deal: in 2006, let's encourage each other to try some different things. To be open when we receive a criticism or an off-the-wall comment we don't like. Instead of sulking (like I do) let's play around with that weird suggestion and see if it will improve our story. I promise I will if you will. What'cha think?
Jess who needs all the encouragement she can get and absolutely loves dishing it out:)

[Jess]

My father still paints wonderfully, he always will.

I really enjoyed hearing your dad's story. I found myself wanting to plaster his paintings all over the internet, set up shows for him, and start taking orders. How old is he? Does he sell now? Doe he have his work in gift shops or studios?

I went back to college when I was 29 because I thought I needed that degree - I thought people would see me as more of a professional if I had one... that didn't work. The degree gave me a little more confidence but that's about it. We have to take ourselves seriously before anyone else does.

Again, thanks for sharing. I'm sending up a prayer that God blesses and uses your dad's talent.
jess

[Merry]

Jess said:

Jess who needs all the encouragement she can get and absolutely loves dishing it out.


What an excellent attitude! It will serve you well! Discouragement is always lurking at the door waiting for a way in. Why, the last time I got discouraged, let's see what time is it? Oh, a few hours ago. But another writer encouraged me greatly, and I'm back. I know we all have faith in God and in a perfect world wouldn't need to hear we're doing okay, but we do.

That's why I think Jess with her attitude is going to be an asset here. It's like I told someone today, we writers are a sensitive lot. :D But if, like Jess. we make a point to speak the truth in love with each other, it will help us all reach our goals.

[Keith Wallis]

What is a writer ? I think a writer is defined in the third person - in that a writer is someone who is read by another (one or a million matters not), if not read the "writer" is a diarist ! Writing for the sake of it, or for yourself, may well be an excellent therapy but doesn't deserve the title "writer". Does that sound harsh - wasn't meant to be - not qualified to make a judgement !
Keith

[Sidewinder4]

Rejection slips, letters, e-mail etc. They liked my story but, "It doesn't fit our publishing plan." Why not? It's just like one of their published series, except different. I've heard it said that a new type of airplane can't fly until the stack of paper work associated with it is as big as the new plane itself. If my book is four hundred pages? NO, no, that can't mean I need 400 rejection letters. But each "NO" brings me that much closer to a "YES." Maybe, yes try, try again.

Thanks, I needed that
Sidewinder4!thumbsup!

[Jess]

Rejection slips, letters, e-mail etc. They liked my story but, "It doesn't fit our publishing plan." Why not? It's just like one of their published series, except different.!

So sorry about the rejection. If there weren't any personal comments or suggestions then go to the next publisher on your list and get that baby back out there. :) The others here might be familiar with your ms. and who you're marketing to but I'm not: will you share some details? What genre? Who are you targeting?

I don't know if you know, but NAVPress is starting a new fiction line...I just got an email rejection a week or so ago on my 4-book series. I don't think they have any guidelines up... they aren't really sure what they're looking for--at least, I don't think they're sure. It's probably one of those --we'll know it when we see it things --:confused:
I've been meaning to find the info I have on it and post it... but where do I post - in the Writers Wanted/Writing Ops area?
jess

[writegirl1949]

Hey Jess, if you find that info, do post it.

While my new book isn't in the Christian genre (and believe me, I sometimes feel like a step-child because of that), the next one might be more in that line. I'm of the firm belief that you don't have to have the Christian classification to have a Christian message. Still, it's hard sometimes. The book can't be listed in a brochure with other Christian titles and one Christian reviewer wasn't sure they'd accept the book for review.

Rejection comes in all forms but the bottom line is knowing I'm following God's leadership. Without that, I have nothing.

Blessings, Francine

[Jess]

Hey Jess, if you find that info, do post it.


Okay, Francine - it's posted~go for it! I know what you mean about feeling like the step-child. So do I. I had an agent until I turned to Christian fiction; she told me she didn't see any reason for it. I find myself floundering now... scared of the rejections from both agents and publishers so... I just procrastinate, and make excuses. And wonder if I can REALLY write. . .:confused: I'm drawn to a lot of secular fiction -- like Fannie Flagg. Just started reading her; and some of the mystery writers. But I really want to write in the Christian field ~ Oh well... God has a plan for me; we'll see what it is. :D

Hope the NavPress info helps someone in this group.
jess

[writegirl1949]

Hi Jess:

Thanks for posting that information. It sounds like the intention of this kind of fiction line is a good one.

I think that researching publishers is the key -- knowing what they might be looking for and then using specific information like that in submissions. And, sharing that information with folks helps a lot.

I'll add one more thing here ;) -- while we all would like to be published by one of THE BIGGIES, we might want to consider a small (but reputible) publisher. That's what I did and am pleased by the results, so far -- and I'm just at the beginning of getting the book out there. True, I have to do much of the marketing myself and that will be a huge undertaking. But, the book touches on a hot topic so I'm hoping to use that as an "in" to getting some exposure.

I've read that many authors published by those BIGGIES do a lot of their own marketing as well. I knew from the beginning I would have to do this and as I researched the book, I worked on developing a list of contacts (mostly reporters) who will receive a news release once I'm back in the states. I also plan on contacting organizations which might be interested in helping promote the book. You see, I believe we can't just write a book, get it published, and then sit back and wait for the $$$ to roll in.:rolleyes: That may work for people like Stephen King or John Grishm, but for us mere mortal authors, "I don't think so."

Basically, we need to do some research BEFORE we write that next bestseller. If there are other books out there similar to what we're working on, it's going to be a harder sell. Yes, it takes a lot of time and effort but I think (hope, pray) it will be worth it in the end.

And I'll end this tirade by saying that being worth it doesn't necessarily mean making lots of $$$. I believe that I have to be faithful to where God has led and is leading me. There's no price tag on the joy of obedience and knowing you've done what you feel God has wanted you to do.

I'm rambling now :cool: and so I'll stop.

Blessings, Francine

[Jess]

I'll add one more thing here ;) -- while we all would like to be published by one of THE BIGGIES, we might want to consider a small (but reputible) publisher. That's what I did and am pleased by the results, so far -- and I'm just at the beginning of getting the book out there. True, I have to do much of the marketing myself and that will be a huge undertaking. But, the book touches on a hot topic so I'm hoping to use that as an "in" to getting some exposure.


Hi - So you have a book coming out? When? Marketing is a huge undertaking. Remember I said my book was about an Elvis look alike? I got this hair-brained idea that I'd contact every Elvis Fan Club in the country -- there were hundreds of them! I could just visualize each member buying at least one book, and maybe one for a friend.:o Boy, was I wrong. Most of those groups kept contacting me for freebies they could auction off at their fund-raisers. And I didn't have the heart to ignore them. I'm sure they made more money off that thing than I did. :rolleyes: Oh well... it was fun, I guess, but hard work. I have a friend who writes a cozy mystery series for Kensington. She spends so much time marketing that it scares me to death. Don't know that I could do what she does, yet I know that's what it takes.
I wish you the best with your book. . .if you want to brainstorm any marketing ideas, just holler. I love doing that! :D
jess

[writegirl1949]

Hi Jess:

The book is out ... I received copies about a week before Christmas.:D It's titled, "Death in the Desert," and deals with the plight of illegal immigrants who are dieing in the deserts of Arizona. It's a contemporary suspense.

I love the concept of your book. What's it called? Have you thought of taking it to Las Vegas for the Elvis Impersonator convention? I am interested in that particular convention because one of the characters in what will be a series of books is a die-hard Elvis fan and in the book I'm working on he goes to the convention. I only know that it's a big deal up there. Obviously, I'll be doing some research on that.

Since I don't want to hi-jack this thread, maybe we should start one up about marketing. :) I'm sure other members here have some ideas -- or at least, I hope so.

I'd love to know more about your book.

Blessings, Francine

[Jess]

Hi Jess:
I love the concept of your book. What's it called? Have you thought of taking it to Las Vegas for the Elvis Impersonator convention? I am interested in that particular convention because one of the characters in what will be a series of books is a die-hard Elvis fan and in the book I'm working on he goes to the convention. I only know that it's a big deal up there. Obviously, I'll be doing some research on that.

Francine - I started a marketing thread. But to quickly answer your questions: The name of my book is THE GROOM WORE BLUE SUEDE SHOES by Jessica Travis. That was a pen name... I wanted to use Jessica Chaney but they thought that was too "Lon Chaney-ish" :rolleyes: My book was about a guy who lost a lot of weight and looked like Elvis. Man! sounds pretty dumb now... but it was sooooooooo much fun to write. It came out in 1996 -- many moons ago. I didn't do too much promo - I read an article in a magazine about the Elvis big shots suing people who were making $$$s off the Elvis name.. and even though I hadn't made any dollars, I got nervous. :D Just call me chick-chick-chick-en.:o
See you at the marketing thread. :)
jess

[Psychefreak]

I have asked myself that question many a time.

I always hoped I was a writer simply because I wished to be, even though I have never had anything published or even set myself to write on a regular basis.

Then I came across a web community called ChristianWriters.com so I signed up thinking that this might validate me as a writer.

Having signed up I suddenly discovered a boldness I never knew before and volunteered to contribute 4 devotionals to a book being organised by another web community that I am a member of.

I have written two so far. It wasn't too difficult. The words csme and flowed and sometimes stacked up behind my too slow typing fingers.

I wrote something that I am proud to have written. I am excited by the fact that when I tried in ernest I succeeded.

I am a writer! I am a writer! I am a writer!

[KO'Leary]

Congratulations Pyschefreak!

You've come to believe what you've been all along, a writer. God bless.

Karen !thumbsup!

[Jess]

The words came and flowed and sometimes stacked up behind my too slow typing fingers. I wrote something that I am proud to have written. I am excited by the fact that when I tried in ernest I succeeded. I am a writer! I am a writer! I am a writer!

Your excitement thrills me! Congratulations. I pray God uses your devos in ways you can't imagine. In fact, I believe they're being written for that special someone who needs to read exactly what you're saying. God's using your writing - isn't it exciting?
Thanks for sharing - what a blessing!
jess

[momwitness]

That is, I believe the key word, CREATE, that is what we are; unmighty creators. I heard a preacher say today that the desire to create is in us because God created us in His image ---

[KO'Leary]

Hi Jess,

Have you ever thought of trying Christian short stories first? The time investment wouldn't be as great and you would get your mane out there in the Christian sector. Publishing credits don't hurt either.

Best wishes with your writing. God bless.

Karen

[Jess]

Hi Jess,

Have you ever thought of trying Christian short stories first? The time investment wouldn't be as great and you would get your mane out there in the Christian sector. Karen


Hi Karen... short stories? Oh my! I don't have a clue when it comes to short stories. :confused: They are sooooooooo hard for me. I've tried writing them in the past, but end up with what most people call just "a slice of life" story. I figure that means I plucked a scene out of what should be a bigger picture. :D I get several of the Christian magazines and read the fiction in them, and think wow! why didn't I come up with that story... I have REAL admiration for short story writers. I guess I'm a LITTLE better with nonfiction and should be querying magazines. That's my downfall... actually sending out the queries. I'm much better at making lists of articles I want to write/magazines I plan to query/etc. I'm a wooooooooonderful list-maker. Is there a market for that?:D

Jessica, QUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEN of the listmakers!
P.S. but just so you won't think I'm a complete slacker... I emailed a proposal to Heartsong Presents a couple of nights ago. !thumbsup! Just a few more chapters and the book will be finished.

[patches]

Q: How does one not get discouraged after their work is torn apart by those who read parts of it or those who seem to want to put thier own "voice" into someone elses work? Having your work torn to shreds is to be expected I guess, but how does one not become discouraged by what seems to be constant beration?

Just remember this:

Prov 1:7 The reverent {and} worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning {and} the principal {and} choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful {and} godly Wisdom, instruction, {and} discipline.

Don't throw your pearls before swine and expect them to get it. On the other hand, be willing to accept criticism (given in love) by those that have godly wisdom. I reckon that requires some discernment. Some people criticize and say it comes from God but the words they utter show the true heart of a person. Everything, when it is boiled down to its lowest common denominator is for Christ or against Christ.

I had some misgivings about a woman that I had known for awhile. I wasn't sure if I should accept her as a prayer partner. She seemed as if she was a Christian with sound doctrinal beliefs but she had also said some things that didn't sit very well in my spirit. So, I began to pray about it.

Within the week, she showed her true colors. And man, I want to tell you that when she did, I was shocked to the core by what came out of her mouth. Arrogant, spiteful and full of mockery. That isn't the spirit of Christ and when I told her so, she cussed me out.

You will find there are a multitude of 'counselors' out there. They want to tell you how you should do things, but the 'wise counselors' are difficult to find and not all wisdom comes from God.

Steph

[patches]

Angel
I write books and sell them to the school system here in Fiji as reading material. So, I have 1000's of books, stacked all over my house waiting for a sale. I found Lulu.com in the states and while the price per book is a little higher, I have no storage fees or books stacked all over the house. I have found they work very good for me. Perhaps you have already looked at them, but thought I would mentione it. I have five books in print on Lulu and have been very pleased, so far. God bless.

Hey Emory,

Could you please vote in my poll on a Self-publishing forum for those of us that self-publish?

It's in the Suggestions forum at the bottom of the page.

Steph

[Jerrbert]

I really enjoyed hearing your dad's story. I found myself wanting to plaster his paintings all over the internet, set up shows for him, and start taking orders. How old is he? Does he sell now? Doe he have his work in gift shops or studios?

I went back to college when I was 29 because I thought I needed that degree - I thought people would see me as more of a professional if I had one... that didn't work. The degree gave me a little more confidence but that's about it. We have to take ourselves seriously before anyone else does.

Again, thanks for sharing. I'm sending up a prayer that God blesses and uses your dad's talent.
jess


Jess, evidently, I don't read these posts as thoroughly as I should, because I just now caught this post. Thank you so much for this. My Dad is in his mid-fifties. He does sell occasionally and he puts his work in a great many places.

He likes doing lanscapes and flowers. I have a couple of his paintings up in my house.

Thank you so much for the prayers.

Jerry

[AWTurner]

You are a writer from the moment you realize there is nothing you desire more than writing.

[htack210]

I enjoyed your post. While it is my sincere hope to be published, I write because writing is something I enjoy doing. It's a part of me. In my opinion, a writer is someone who loves to observe, and who loves to write about what he sees.

[kathymik]

Dear Glenn,

I really enjoyed "What makes a writer a writer?". I have been called to write and at times doubt my self and my ability. I know for certain that God wants me to write. Your piece really encouraged me to use my writing as a form of worship and to encourage others through my writing.

Thank you and God bless you.

Kathy Mikshenas, New member

[crafinna]

My tounge is the pen of a ready writer...Psalm 45

A writer is anyone from birth to death and after whose words live on-their lives written in our hearts!
Some people "write" in people's lives-like Ministers or good Social Workers, Teachers...
Others "write" in fabric, paint, plaster, wood and metal-espressions of the soul for all to see...
and then there are those of us who choose to "write" our words indellibly-to leave as a legacy unchanging-a testament to a part of us-or our lives-in the hopes of helping someone along the way-even if it is to entertain them, and hold them captive for a brief segment of their existance.

[kathymik]

Dear Craffina,

Thank you for your reply. It really blessed me. God bless you.

Kathy Mikshenas

[mom_mcmom]

Anyone can write, but it's how the writer uses the mind to convey pictures, capture moods, how one will be able to relate and get their point across. It can be done by anyone, it's just a matter of the thought process. Some, I'm sure will diagree. It's all about knowing when and how to say it.

[rljfl]

Already this website is helping me...I think I almost have forgotten why I want to write. I write because I love it...(and I need some way to quiet all the voices in my head:eek: )...but I think lately I've been obsessed with trying to get it published and finding a way to make a living off of this...(I have many rationalizations for this...but that just means that my motivations are muddled, aren't they?). This thread has put me in the right perspective again. Although I would love to be published, I simply need to write to write...:D

[crafinna]

U r 2 kind-
to make a living, we do business plans, grants, project proposals (there r free to $50 to $5000 workshops on how to do these)-look online for free workshops-but writing just to be published-no sin-littlepassion showing for the craft is all...u don't have to ever have a word published (other than here! :) )to be a true Writer! You are!

[Chramosta]

let's turn it around a bit. I think I am a writer because I write (Just like JCAngelPen said) question is: Am I being published? Answer: I don't really care? I am just trying to share my knowledge and experience with those who might find it helpful. Yes, it means I would like to get published. To make money? I don't care, even though I could use some. Do I want to be famous? .....hmmmm, maybe for willingness of sharing what I have and what I am trying to give.

[AJWOODSON]

I'm new here
and I must say this was very encouraging and insightful
Im skimming thru the site and I love the energy in here
Ive learned so much already
and wanted to just say thank u
and praise God for CW