I don’t recall who, but a famous (and now dead) writer once quipped that to be a good writer, one must not have a job that involves writing. The idea is that you find writing a joy and your passion finds its way onto the page. If you equate writing with labor, then you have neither joy nor passion for writing.
Well, I write for a living. And it’s the most mundane form of writing: technical writing. And as if that itself weren’t bad enough, I author all kinds of reports and manuals for the military. Exciting stuff, I know. *yawn* Nevertheless, I am immensely passionate about my writing.
The quote’s author is wrong, then. Because I’ve seen the cheese commercials featuring happy cows. Those cows haven’t lost their passion; in fact, they’re overflowing with passion — it’s coming out their teats!
But lately, for me…despite penning blog posts, I haven’t moved an inch on my novel. I cannot figure out what the “problem” is, exactly: By all accounts I have a fantastic story, a well-constructed plot with textbook structure, a wonderful cast of believable characters, and tons of great scene-filling ideas. Plus, the whole thing is mapped out (thanks, Lindsay!), and my girlfriend is exceptionally supportive and accommodating. However, when it comes to actually writing it…ever tried to suck peanut butter through a straw?
So, my friends, any helpful insight or ideas?
