Insights from My Journey as a Writer

My love for writing began long before I encountered the literary giants that shaped my academic journey. It was a profound realization that my passion for storytelling and prose was ingrained in me long before I had the chance to explore the works of influential authors like Saul Bellow and T.S. Eliot. Books like Henderson the Rain King and The Love Song of J Alfred Prufrock played a significant role in redirecting my academic path and solidifying my identity as a writer.

The Early Years and the Call to Write

My interest in writing emerged at an early age, and I started penning terrible poems about marine creatures when I was still a child. My father, an English major, encouraged my budding talent. Even though I chose to major in International Relations at university, it quickly became apparent that my true calling lay in literature. Reading Peace Like a River in my thirties was a pivotal moment, rekindling my passion for the craft and setting me back on track as a writer.

The Influence of Dostoevsky

The works of Dostoevsky were a revelation. His ability to explore complex human emotions and societal issues in depth left a lasting impact on me. Poring over his novels like The Brothers Karamazov and Crime and Punishment made me realize the vast potential of literature to broaden one's perspective and challenge one's beliefs.

Confronting Fear and Embracing the Journey

Like many aspiring writers, I faced numerous fears that held me back. For years, I wrote novella-length pieces but never dared to submit them. The thought of rejection was too much to bear. Owning a diagnosis of cancer and preparing for its uncertainties compelled me to confront my own fears head-on. When I conquered my battle with cancer, I realized that the act of publishing my work was less daunting than the fear of never trying. My decision to not fail any more by never attempting to publish marked a significant milestone in my writing journey.

The Marketing Hurdle and the Path Forward

Currently, I have published a few works, but the marketing aspect still poses a challenge. While my ultimate goal is to live solely off my writing, I at least have the validation of seeing my name on a finished piece. Publishing a book was a step towards my long-held bucket list, and overcoming the fear of sending my work out into the world was the hardest part. As I continue to navigate this new career, my advice to aspiring writers is to not let fear paralyze you. Take the leap, and you may discover that the rewards far outweigh the initial fears.