Collecting Pearl of Wisdom: Writing Advice That Shaped My Career

My journey as a writer spans three decades, during which I have penned everything from daily news reports to web content and blogs. Along the way, I have collected a treasure trove of writing advice that has played a significant role in my career. In this article, I will share some of the most impactful tips that led to my success and the publishing of my book.

What Writing Advice Got Me Published?

One of my closest friends, who had a short story published in a collection, once asked her publisher if they could consider my manuscript. Much to my surprise, they did, and my book was published. This experience underscored the importance of taking a persistent and optimistic approach to publishing.

You can write way better than that. You should try it! That's the only writing advice I ever remember following, and it has worked wonders for me. Genuine encouragement from a peer can be incredibly powerful. It's important to believe in your abilities and take that first step.

Key Takeaways from My Writing Journey

Through my career, I have adhered to several key principles:

1. Following the AP Style Guide

A crucial decision was to learn and strictly follow the AP Style Guide. This guide provides clear, consistent rules for grammar, punctuation, and style, ensuring that my writing is always polished and professional.

2. Continuous Writing

One of the most noteworthy lessons is that I started writing and didn't stop. Consistency is key, and finding a routine that works for you is essential. This practice has helped me refine my skills and produce high-quality content over time.

3. Embracing Language as a Tool

My approach to language is very much like a plumber’s approach to tools. Just as a plumber doesn't get sentimental about a faulty valve, I don't get attached to a sentence that doesn't work. If a sentence or piece of writing isn't effective, I revise it until it conveys the intended message clearly. Language is a tool, and like any tool, it should be used effectively to achieve your desired outcomes.

Primary Influences and Notable Advice

The biggest influence on my writing came from Laurence Block's Telling Lies for Fun and Profit. This book is a must-read for any aspiring novelist. Block's insights into plotting, character development, and pacing have been an invaluable resource.

Writing and More Writing

The basic advice I always follow is to write, write, and write some more. Practice makes perfect, and the more you write, the better you become. Consistency and dedication are the keys to success in any field, especially in writing.

Learning from Successful Writers

When attending a writer's conference, I attended a session on freelancing for magazines. The speaker provided valuable insights and practical advice that I immediately implemented. Three weeks later, I received my first assignment from a national magazine. This experience taught me the importance of finding successful writers and learning from them. By emulating their strategies and techniques, you can achieve success in your own career.

Staying a Writer

Perhaps the most impactful advice I received was a face-to-face talk with Harlan Ellison, who said to me, The trick is not becoming a writer — it's staying a writer. This means that the journey of a writer is continuous. Staying committed, even in the face of challenges, is crucial. Writing is not just something you do once and leave behind; it's a path you walk continually.

By embracing these pieces of advice, I have been able to build a successful writing career. Remember, success in writing is not just about the initial burst of inspiration; it's about the dedication and perseverance that come afterward.