Everyday’s Writing Tips

Dear Everyday,

I’ve been struggling with my writing for several years now. I’m still not published. I work a dead-end job and I’m on my way to divorce court. Do I continue this dream or find a new one?

Desperation, Texas

It used to be that one would have to send away for a black and white guide on how to become a poet or novelist. Inside would be a free bookmark and a chance to win $10,000 in a poetry contest. Those who were all heart wasted no time in filling out registration forms and making copies of their Haiku. The cynical that stayed home learned later that they were right and the Vanity Press was just another washed-up High School English teacher with a penchant for stealing from the blind. Oh, the bad old days . . . right?

Nope. “Writing” on the net is filled with same bad fish as the back end of a magazine. Here are a few of my heartfelt thoughts without a fee or email newsletter.

Dear Desperation,

Go back in time and remember what it was you liked best about stories. Write with a child’s heart. Try not to believe everything on the Internet. Research. Do not write with an empty stomach. If you have to, buy a cheesy poster with something about Discipline on it and a rock climber. Make it your mantra. Writers need this like oxygen.

For every person that helps you with your craft you in turn help someone else with theirs. This karma thing really works.

Best of Luck,

Everyday Harryman