Have you ever thought about the power in writing? Of course, we’ve all heard the famous quote penned by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839 for his play, Richelieu, “The pen is mightier than the sword.†This quote indicates the power in words, but I’m talking about the power of writing.
For some, writing is therapeutic. For others, it’s empowering—“I’m somebody.†Others view a published book as a status symbol or a statement of their worth. Just watch the demeanor of your friends, fellow writers’ club members or that neighbor who has been a closet writer for the last 3 years. When an author gets his book published, he suddenly changes. He starts carrying a briefcase. She totes a larger purse. You know there are copies of their new books inside. Newly published authors are friendlier than they were when they were writing. They become masters at bringing the conversation around to the subject of their books. New authors walk taller. They seem more confident—as if they could slay the fiercest dragon and ride the wildest bull.
It is exhilarating to hold a book of your words in your hands after spending months or even years in writing posture. For anyone over 35, a published author is still a step above the rest. So, to join that perceived private club of authors is considered prestigious, indeed.
Many of you reading this blog either are authors or plan to become authors. I’d love to hear how you felt and reacted the first time you held your newly published book in your hands. I recall being ecstatic. It was back in 1978 when A.S. Barnes published my book, Hints For the Backyard Rider. When copies arrived in the mail, I started jumping around (well, I was younger then) and squealing. I relished the feel of the books in my hands. I loved breathing in the scent of the ink as it burst forth when we opened the box. I swelled with pride as I called everyone I knew to tell them that I was officially a published author. And then I broke out the Champaign.
And yes, I’m sure I walked a little taller. I felt as though I had arrived. Little did I know that my life would be dedicated to writing and publishing and that one day I would be the author of 27 published books. What would I advise hopeful and struggling authors who want to create a career as a writer and/or author?
• Don’t quit your day job just yet.
• Never stop studying and learning.
• Be willing to do what it takes.
• Practice Persistence and Patience.
• Properly prepare yourself for the journey.
• Learn to be flexible.
• Hang in there through the ups and downs because there will be plenty of both.
Yes, writing has power which can be experienced by the reader as well as the author. Just make sure that you handle that power responsibly. Contact me at PLFry620@yahoo.com