Mrs M
yoda76WHEN CAN YOU CALL YOURSELF A WRITER?
November 9th 2007 04:10
The other evening Mr M and I attended the red carpet premiere of the new Australian film Gabriel and sure enough there were an abundance of industry people in attendance.
So amidst the shaking of hands, patting on backs and promises to collaborate on new projects I ask the question, when can you call yourself an artist, a producer, director, actor, cinematographer, writer, runner?
Does anyone aspire to become a runner? I digress.
Many of you know Mr M as yoda76 from The Daily Tube. You will also know that he is an established film/video editor. But he fought long, he fought hard; in the face of adversity and moments of doubt he persevered. He is without a doubt an editor. Hold your head up high Mr M, you've done it.
But at what point could Mr M call himself an editor? He says right from day one, when he embarked on his career. "Nobody wants to give a job to someone who 'wants' to be an editor", he says.
Yeah but isn't there some part that wants to say "you're not an editor until you've lived being an editor". Personally I do have this sense of 'you need to earn your stripes first'. I don't know why. It's probably not even very fair to think that. I think it has something to do with freelance versus employed.
If I started a regular Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, job next week as a writer then I could say with conviction that I am a writer.
The day I gave birth to my first child I became a mother. Even though I had no experience, I was a mother just as much as the next.
I am a writer...I think. No, no, I am. I just freelance. Even though I haven't been published as many times as some of my favourite writers, I have been published. I'm just at the beginning of my career...right?
But what about Harper Lee. She hasn't written much at all. One novel (brilliant, yes) and a few essays from what I understand, but that was years ago. Is she a writer? Even is she doesn't write commercially anymore?
I used to be a video editor. I even tried to make a career out of it, but the dues you have to pay to make it to the top I thought were too costly for me. So I stopped editing. I can't say that I'm an editor. I can say that I was an editor once, but not anymore.
But if I decided tomorrow to pick up where I left off, can I say that I an editor? I feel like I am more of a writer than an editor now.
So people of Orbleland, are you all writers, directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, visual artists, critics, philosophers?
So amidst the shaking of hands, patting on backs and promises to collaborate on new projects I ask the question, when can you call yourself an artist, a producer, director, actor, cinematographer, writer, runner?
Does anyone aspire to become a runner? I digress.
Many of you know Mr M as yoda76 from The Daily Tube. You will also know that he is an established film/video editor. But he fought long, he fought hard; in the face of adversity and moments of doubt he persevered. He is without a doubt an editor. Hold your head up high Mr M, you've done it.
But at what point could Mr M call himself an editor? He says right from day one, when he embarked on his career. "Nobody wants to give a job to someone who 'wants' to be an editor", he says.
Yeah but isn't there some part that wants to say "you're not an editor until you've lived being an editor". Personally I do have this sense of 'you need to earn your stripes first'. I don't know why. It's probably not even very fair to think that. I think it has something to do with freelance versus employed.
If I started a regular Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, job next week as a writer then I could say with conviction that I am a writer.
The day I gave birth to my first child I became a mother. Even though I had no experience, I was a mother just as much as the next.
I am a writer...I think. No, no, I am. I just freelance. Even though I haven't been published as many times as some of my favourite writers, I have been published. I'm just at the beginning of my career...right?
But what about Harper Lee. She hasn't written much at all. One novel (brilliant, yes) and a few essays from what I understand, but that was years ago. Is she a writer? Even is she doesn't write commercially anymore?
I used to be a video editor. I even tried to make a career out of it, but the dues you have to pay to make it to the top I thought were too costly for me. So I stopped editing. I can't say that I'm an editor. I can say that I was an editor once, but not anymore.
But if I decided tomorrow to pick up where I left off, can I say that I an editor? I feel like I am more of a writer than an editor now.
So people of Orbleland, are you all writers, directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, visual artists, critics, philosophers?
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Comment by yoda76
The Tube Blog
That it all.
...only kidding...
Don't matter if you are at the beginning of your career or the end of it (or in Harper Lee's case, both at once!!) - you may not have the credentials of the next writer, but you are a writer.
To use your mother example - you say you became a mother the day you gave birth. Does that put you on level peggin with a mother of a 22 year old? Probably not. Does it make you any less a mother? Absolutely not.
Besides - IMHO, you became a mother when you had another life within you. Mother status begins at -9 months as far as I'm concerned
Good to see ou posting again, Mrs M.
Comment by Ahmed
Video Gamer Kids
Little Green Foosballs
PolyKicks
I wager 3 months.
on the topic at hand: i'm not really a writer, considering how bad I am at stringing words together
Comment by Damo
You can claim to be anything.
A struggling writer?
Struggling against ?
A new writer?
Where are the old one?
A hack writer?
Any writer without a press agent.
Comment by Sheree
Cliche Murder
and because I feel like I've undergone all the gruelling training that comes with being a writer...without the grand struggle of the publishing world.
but I have been published and I have been paid for it...and I feel like it's everything I do these days.
So when do you start calling yourself a writer?
Whenever the title feels adequate! when you don't feel like an imposter. When other people start to recognise you as 'the writer of the group' or 'ask him/her to write it for you'. When you can sympathise with other writers and speak of the same sort of issues. When you're no longer outside looking in..
Comment by Kleonaptra
Kalikapsychosis
Im a writer because I write.....I cant stop myself. Always jotting poems and stuff even when I think Im too tired.
I dont think you have to get paid, but Ive won prizes if that counts!
I think we're all writers here, but something else too. Blogging becomes a creative outlet all its own.
Comment by What's Your Story?
What's Your Story?
Big Day Plunge
Comment by Miswanderlust
Killer Beats
Ramble On
Hipnotherapy
Mis
Comment by Chris Collings
Poker Pro Blog
KB Dollars
Freelance Online Work
Freelance Work Forum
I believe you are a writer as soon as you learn to write, even at the tender age of 6 or 7. We tell our children what a neat writer they are at that early age, so I consider a writer to be someone who can write.
You continue to be a writer until your' book gets published, at which time you become an author. Alternatively you could continue to be a writer until you write an article which is published, then you can call yourself a columnist or journalist. On the other hand you are still a writer until your' writing sells and then you become a copywriter.
So to sum up, we are all writers until our writing gets us paid. Only some are better wordsmiths.
Chris
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
It’s nice to see you. This is a good question, one that I’ve grappled with for a while. Is it when you are published, is it after completing a university degree, is it when you feel comfortable with saying it, it’s hard to know.
I write because I’m drawn to it, I can’t envisage not, it doesn’t feel right. When something comes into my head, I imagine myself writing it down and then I do.
Writing doesn’t have to be about publishing, but of course that would be great from a financial angle plus the recognition, but as you mentioned, there are a whole realm of other reasons.
I am finally beginning to say I’m a writer, both to myself and others. The problem I am having, especially with my in-laws and family, rather than friends, is that they automatically assume I am writing a book. I might be, I might not. I see that as my business. It isn’t the only form of writing that exists. I’m happy to be asked what kind of writing etc, but I get frustrated when writing a book is viewed as the only way that I can be a writer.
I see writing as being an evolving occurrence; it has been for me anyway. As I get older and have more experiences, gain confidence in different areas of life, my writing and passions become clearer, as well as more important.
Great question...
Comment by Sonya 1
Freelance Tips
Writing Words
I think everyone who writes somewhat regularly may call themselves a writer. For me, "writer" does not (necessarily) mean "somebody who gets paid for her/his writing", it is more the attitude that counts.
So I'd say we are all writers here.
Sonya
Comment by Mr Nice Guy
Pop Culturist
Pop Rock Factory
Titles have never really concerned me.
No disrespect intended - but if I regularly take my kids to school in the car - does that make me a taxi driver?
I see CV's come through my hands each week - with applicants plying everything from being a journalist - (because they've done a week's work experience and submitted a few 250-word pieces to their local rag) to being a photographer because they enjoy taking happy snaps.
It's all about the person really. If someone considers themselves a writer in their own mind - that's great!
Every budding 'writer' (like anything else) has to start somewhere.
I guess once you start to make some kind of regular existence from the craft - then in most people's minds you're a writer.
After all - the first thing most people will ask is - what have you had published, who do you work for, is there something I may have read - yaddah, yaddah, yaddah
Feel comfortable in your own skin - we all write, just as we all eat - but that doesn't make us food critics.
Nice thought provoking piece.
Stay well.
MNG
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
It is lovely to see you again.
I think a writer is someone who feels they want to try and capture 'their time' in their own words, least that is probably the motivation.
To the world, however, they are probably not considered a 'writer' until they have (a) been published (with more than an article); or (b) become an author of a best seller.
I think there is a huge discrepancy between the two viewpoints and that is probably what keeps many good writers from becoming so in the world view.
Catch-22.
You need experience to gain confidence to create the experience.
I think I am a part-time writer and part-time artist.
Lilla ...
Comment by yoda76
The Tube Blog
But you have to start with one of these, Lilla, and personally I believe it's the confidence.
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Technically true, everyone who puts pen to paper tackles that very issue and confidence begins, leading to experience, but so many people I know, don't write because they lack confidence in their ability...which always brings me to the importance of encouragement - especially as a parent - and how a lack of it, is the equivalent of removing one of the main corner stones of development towards confidence to express our innate abilities. But I digress.
I guess it comes back to every journey begining with the first step, which requires confidence, some make it, some don't ... perhaps for a writer it does come with the paycheck, like Damo suggested and not before?
Fair comment.
Lilla ...
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
Sure I'm a mother...and so you are sometimes....no I'm just kidding. I just couldn't pass it up.
And Ahmed,
you're definitely a machine.
Hi Damo,
You can claim to be anything.
I think that's just it with writing, we can't rest on our laurels, unless you're Harper Lee.
Hi Sheree,
I have a journalism degree and I have to say for me, that in no way did I feel like a journalist until I was published.
I think also for me it's when another writer/journo reads my stuff and likes it. That's always nice.
Hi Kleo,
I think you could make money from your writing. I'm not about to tell you that you're not a writer. It's obvious that you can write and really if you're no good at it, then it's never going to happen.
This really isn't a cut and dried topic.
Blogging is definitely a creative outlet but even you've seen that some people really take their time to write their blog whereas others use it to keep their friends/family up to date. So calling yourself a blogger sometimes doesn't mean much.
I don't know.
Hi What's Your Story?
I guess by the title of your blog you write. I think you've raised an interesting point. You're a writer at heart which I'm guessing you do it with some regularity. That's the other key. I'm intrigued by the title of your blog. I'll have to come and visit.
Hi Mis,
Thanks. You're opinion means a lot. You are one of my barometers here on Orble.
Hi Chris,
You continue to be a writer until your' book gets published, at which time you become an author.
My daughter is 6 and now that she can write she likes to write simple stories. I can see that she finds it freeing and satisfying so it would be cruel to tell her that she's not a writer, or not good at it. I think you've made a good point there. Confidence is everything.
Hi Tracy,
Nice to be back.
In high school I did music and majored in Performance playing Piano. I remember my piano teacher trying to evoke emotion out of my playing. I was technically very good but I was a little scant on the emotions. Now that I'm a little older and a little more battle weary, I have emotions aplenty. I think I'd kick butt now.
Hi Sonya,
Hi MNG,
You have some interesting thoughts.
I think if I can build a rapport with an editor then I might feel a little closer to calling myself a fully fledged writer/journo. If I get into some sort of network, I know it would help.
I know within myself that I could never be a food critic but I do know that I can string some words together in a coherent sentence; but I'm being honest with myself about my capabilities.
I'm pretty sure I can make a career out of this; it's not some sort of pipe dream. I take comfort in that. Step 1 down; onto the next.
It just seems like it is a simple claim to make without proving yourself first. Is it a fine line between being determined and confident to being arrogant? Or not being confident enough? Fake it 'til you make it?
And I can answer your question 'is there someone you make have read?' Well I have had an article published in Sydney's Child and in the February 2008 edition I'll have another 2. Yay for me
They're a lovely bunch there. Smart people, recognise good writing when they see it
Hi Lilla,
From what I've read in your blogs you're a freelance writer/journo. Does the fact that you can say with confidence that you are a writer make you feel better? I mean, people will agree that you are. You are established. Is it satisfying when you realise that you are established?
I see Mr M and his world and I want what he has. He has approval from his peers. I want that. I hope it feels as satisfying and I'm making it out to be.
There is a big difference between "the world" as you've mentioned and self satisfaction.
I have to admit, I look back at some of my essays and sometimes surprise myself about how good they are, so I do get satisfaction just for me out of my own writing. But I am also compelled to have the world 'notice' me.
Blogging certainly has given me a taste of this and it has helped my confidence immensely.
I get the impression Lilla that you would be good at anything creative. You say you are a part time artist, do you paint, sculpt, sketch?
Thanks everyone for your comments. They have definitely been thought provoking.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by tlcorbin-raginravensview
Me? I'm a scribbler of sorts.
Yours is an interesting perspective.
Raven
Comment by MelissaA
Fun Facts
It's sort of like how my husband sometimes tells me that I smell. I used to take offence to it, but as he kept pointing out, he hadn't said whether I smelled good or bad, just that I smelled.
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
Scribbler of sorts....I love it
Hi Melissa,
Good point you make there dear. I write therefore I am.
Did your husband ever tell you that you smelled bad?
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by MelissaA
Fun Facts
Best way to keep him in line actually.
Now let's see if that little comment doesn't lure him out of the woodwork.
Comment by KylieW
Celebrity Obsession
Thought-provoking question. I think it's when you yourself are comfortable with the title. If you do it regularly, and feel like one, then you've earned the title.
Kylie
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
I think I've come to realise that the only thing standing in my way between 'wanting to be a writer' and 'being a writer' is time.
If I spent more time writing then I would no doubt have the momentum I'm lacking now.
Thanks everyone for helping me work this one out.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by MelissaA
Fun Facts
To actually write for a lengthy amount of time and then later pose the question just goes to prove that you are indeed one, and capable of weighty thought.
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
Thanks. That's gives me warm and fuzzies.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Miswanderlust
Killer Beats
Ramble On
Hipnotherapy
Wow that is a compliment! Thanks for the kind words!
Mis
Comment by AmyHuang
Project Job Search
Travel Debate
Travel String
Love Adventures
I get paid to present, but I am not a speaker.
I get paid to house sit my sister's place when she is a way, but I am not a house keeper
I don't get paid to write (yet) but I consider myself more of a writer, than any of the above occupations.
Good post Mrs M! This type of essays have been the heart of my Masters in Writing course which I am currently undertaking.
Sometimes, those who are not a writer cannot understand the definition of being a writer. Just as MelissaA and KylieW says, if you write and aspire to write, then you are a writer. Yet, to those who do not, think it's just a side thing you do, you must have another title....
Hmm I am going to have to sleep on this question....
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
Masters in Writing, very nice. Obviously you and words have an understanding then
I like your answer. This week I just took as job, part-time admin support for an event organiser, but I certainly don't class myself as a PA.
The other thing I have come to realise is obviously people have their own benchmark to help inspire so we can aspire to be 'better'. Does that make sense? Once I reach one level, I want to reach another and another. And I keep saying to myself..."I'm not a writer until...."
Thanks for the visit Amy.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Kleonaptra
Kalikapsychosis
Get some new friends maybe? *giggle* You'll always be a writer to me Mrs M, and a damn fine one at that.
Comment by Anonymous
The only qualification for anything is self belief.
You are what you believe you are.
That's why I've always been a star
And you, my friend, are a fantastic writer.
Lachy.
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
You've come up for air.
You saying that I'm a fantastic writer means a lot....(bit of mutual admiration here)...I've always liked how you saw the world.
And yes, you're a star.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Lara M
Love Speaks
Food Slate
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
When were were on our way into the movie premiere Mr M asked me what I would say to people when they asked me what I did.
I kind of looked at him blankly and said "Stay home mum?"
And he said "Yes, and you're a writer...don't forget that part".
And sure enough when someone asked I fumbled my answer.
I'm just not used to saying it either. I think I just need to say it out loud more often.
Is blogging writing? Yes, but then again every man and his dog can blog so how to differentiate those who truly can write from those who just post things. There's no editor here to keep anyone in check.
That's also the beauty of it because writing is so subjective how can anyone really judge who is good and who is not.
And we could be here all night.....
Thanks for the visit Lara.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by JP Shaw
Sassy Ink Author
I'm not sure.
Now I write. Am I a write? I think as some people here posted, you are what you are when you are comfortable with the label, comfortable carrying it on your shoulders, wearing it proudly and yelling it from the rooftops without feeling guilty, or as though you are stealing someone else's mask.
I've been writing since before I became a singer, but only recently hit the lime-light so to speak, and even then it took me a bit to come to a conscious realization that I am INDEED a writer and wear the label proudly without reservation.
All in all I think it boils down to the passion you have for something, how much energy you are willing to put into it and if your confidence can carry you through the storm and raging waters to where you can finally lift your head up and say to yourself... sink or swim?
Right now I'm swimming, and I may sink, but I will keep on swimming as now with new profound enjoyment of knowing this is who I am, who I want to be, and where I want to go.
A woman once told me when I asked her what she was... replied. "I am a mother, a musician, an artist, a wife, a painter, a cross-stitcher, a writer, a film maker, a coffee barista and the list went on. When I asked her how she could be all those all those things? She simply said, life is a journey, I've traveled each road, come up against each fork, taken my turns, and enjoyed every moment. That's what it's all about.
I think she's right.
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
I like what you've written. I used to be in the school band playing piano and sang. I also play netball. I was good at all those things but if I had to pick one thing that I thought I could really be successful at, it would be writing.
Thanks for the visit JP.
Love & stuff
Mrs M