Keep Getting Better (Unless You’re Shakespeare)

Have you ever heard a writer say these words? “I’m the best writer in the world.”

You agree to read their story, and yes, your suspicions are confirmed—they fall short of the mark.

No writer is perfect, and every story can be improved (except Shakespeare). This includes you. I’m sorry. I know how hard those words are to hear.

Here’s a case to help you feel better. J.K. Rowling is on the Forbes’ billionaire list because she sold quite a few copies of the Harry Potter books. In interviews, she admits there are areas in the series that need improvement. Why? Because one billion in sales isn’t good enough. The amount of sales isn’t confirmation.

Finding the perfect word, sentence, or plot is an art that touches our souls, not our bank accounts or sales numbers. We’re all looking to improve (except Shakespeare).

Generally, writers continue to perfect their work until friends or publishers pry their manuscript from their control. We edit, edit, and edit more. So what’s the best way to improve your work so you’re able to come up with a solid sentence, paragraph, chapter, and story without massive revisions?

As you edit, focus in on a weak area of your writing, something that doesn’t feel or read right. Is your dialogue stilted? Do you use the word ‘I’ so many times your manuscript looks like a forest? Are your descriptions bland? Do you have a sagging middle? Everyone has similar problems and have struggled to overcome many similar issues (except Shakespeare).

Idahope has an upcoming conference. This is a perfect time to address a simple area you want to work on. Take your concern and frame it into a single sentence. If you see a group of writers standing in a circle, approach the group, and at a moment of opportunity, tell them your problem. In moments, you will be bombarded with appropriate advice.

The Fall Gathering is a perfect time to ask the question, ‘What keeps you rooted to love? What keeps you rooted to the Word?’ You fill in the object of the preposition.

We look forward to seeing you there with your thoughts on what keeps you rooted (except Shakespeare)!

Not all opinions expressed are those of every ICW member. Photo Credit: JJ-Jordan