I’m fascinated that you had to quit being a writer to devote yourself to writing. The poet in me loves that. You explained a lot so very succinctly, but that’s the bottom line isn’t it? And now that I’m writing prose (!) (via Mama Ephemera’s Muddy Feet aka Kellylenox/Substack.com/ ) and thus struggling with identity, I appreciate this piece--and all of them--all the more. Super encouraging to this pen-waggler.
This resonated through and through, especially about casting off this Identity as Writer and moving to the edges (best place for writer) outside the creative-writing industrial complex (thank you for that). Living as a human and passionate reader, who happens to be writing today.
Okay okay, but will you or won’t you blurb my book?? (Kidding). This was honest and enlightening and I felt a bit of this myself during my years teaching high school English. It wears on you. I’m glad you’re devoting your time to your own work now. You’ve earned it.
I’d never really considered how mixing with other writers might affect my own writing negatively. Your post has given me food for thought. Thanks, Douglas. And lots of good wishes for your new found writerly freedom.
Rats! I guess I won't be asking you to read my novel. Just a favour for an old friend. I'd pay you in dinners and beers. 😄
Still ... if all of this means YOU will have time to write, the world is a better place!
I’m fascinated that you had to quit being a writer to devote yourself to writing. The poet in me loves that. You explained a lot so very succinctly, but that’s the bottom line isn’t it? And now that I’m writing prose (!) (via Mama Ephemera’s Muddy Feet aka Kellylenox/Substack.com/ ) and thus struggling with identity, I appreciate this piece--and all of them--all the more. Super encouraging to this pen-waggler.
Loved this, Doug. Been there, done that with the teaching highs and lows. Glad to hear you are allowing yourself to say no.
This resonated through and through, especially about casting off this Identity as Writer and moving to the edges (best place for writer) outside the creative-writing industrial complex (thank you for that). Living as a human and passionate reader, who happens to be writing today.
I could reply with appreciation and how much we share, but I can't. I'm no longer a writer.
Okay okay, but will you or won’t you blurb my book?? (Kidding). This was honest and enlightening and I felt a bit of this myself during my years teaching high school English. It wears on you. I’m glad you’re devoting your time to your own work now. You’ve earned it.
I’d never really considered how mixing with other writers might affect my own writing negatively. Your post has given me food for thought. Thanks, Douglas. And lots of good wishes for your new found writerly freedom.
Glad I came across your site, fellow writer.
This was particularly delightful, Douglas. Thanks.