My Son's Tale and the Reality of Becoming a Writer

As a seasoned SEO and writer, I often delve into the intricacies of craft and practice, but some tales paint a clearer picture than theoretical advice. Just recently, my son shared a story that not only amused and disgusted me, but also resonated with the very question I've been pondering: is two years a reasonable amount of time to practice writing before publishing my first book?

Little Anecdotes and Stories with Dialogue

One evening, my son, now nineteen years old, told me a story about a mutual acquaintance he knows. This young man, a car crash victim, emerged from a well-known hospital with broken ribs. The story goes that he wasn't being treated well. A mutual friend#8212;the son's girlfriend's father, who runs the hospital#8212;raised a storm by calling his daughter, who then called the hospital's owner to put a stop to it. The rest of the story was left unsaid, but the underlying message was clear: the treatment of patients in that hospital was questioned, and the importance of care and respect was highlighted.

Little stories like these not only tug at our heartstrings but also remind us of the real-world issues we face as human beings. And as a writer, I take heart in these small, often overlooked moments. Yet, when it comes to writing, these stories are the fuel that drives us to hone our craft.

Practice and Becoming a Writer

While you might delve into various genres like science fiction, romance, mystery, or literary fiction, there is only one essential skill: the writing craft. Good writing is good writing, regardless of the genre. Whether you're crafting fiction or non-fiction, histories, biographies, or self-help books, the fundamentals remain the same. You must develop a solid grip on spelling, grammar, sentence structure, and a wide vocabulary to express yourself without having to rely on a thesaurus for variety.

Yet, the journey is not overnight. Just as the narrator's sentence practice incorrectly reads ‘practice a writing craft’ rather than ‘practice writing craft,’ it reveals a lack of clarity in understanding. Even the best writers require years of practice to master these elements. But do not despair; if you apply yourself diligently, the path will become clearer.

Expectations and Realism

Two years may seem like a long time to practice writing, but it is far from unrealistic. Remember, as one writer did, and published their first book in about two months, it is entirely possible for you as well. Independent publishing platforms like Amazon KDP have made it easier than ever to share your work with the world. With the right dedication and persistence, you too can make a name for yourself in the literary world.

So, whether you're 18 or 20, the journey is yours to shape. Embrace it with all your might, and remember that success, like good writing, takes time. With every word you write, you are one step closer to realizing your dreams.