Every day that you write in your journal, comment on someone’s work, or post on Facebook, you are practicing the art of writing. But what are you practicing? Are you developing reasonably intellectual arguments or comments, or describing a picture of a cat as cute and fluffy?
The practice of creative writing requires some dedication to consistency. Like any talent, if you do not practice regularly, your work will not be as sharp and lack focus. This does not mean that a practiced writer will not make mistakes. On the contrary, I edit my work several times before allowing it to leave my possession.
I recently offered a first draft to a colleague who agreed to review my work for content. I know she will end up doing line by line editing because she was an instructor for so many years. I write daily, but I found four mistakes of syntax and punctuation on page one of my draft after viewing the printed copy. I should have reviewed the work more closely before showing it to my mentor.
Printing out your work and reviewing it offers a different perspective from seeing it on line or on the computer screen. Perspective in writing can be expanded by trying on different genres and styles of writing. Switching from fiction to non-fiction, from journalistic style to fan-fiction, or from business format to poetry can give any writer a creative boost.
Creativity and inspiration is important in the practice and production of good writing. Look for inspiration anyplace you spend time. If that is on line, in a library, or sitting at a concert with friends, then find your motivation there. Practice writing every day and you may be signing your autograph for a fan inside the cover of your next book. You will not find success if you don’t try through applied practice.
sherrystruthtofiction 