On Being a Writer

My seriousness in “writing” began in college. I became a member of the school paper, accidentally. I was a sophomore then, waiting for a friend who was my regular companion in going home. Another friend encouraged me to take the placement exam for The Paulinian, St. Paul University Manila’s school paper. Since I want to kill time too, I decided to take the exam. Lo and behold, I passed!

I started as a news writer, and the rest is history. I became an editor-in-chief, not only of the school paper, but also of the school comics. Back then, I did not find school life smooth sailing. I have to study hard, and have to deprive myself of many things, even disregarding my own health and personal comfort. But that developed my will power, a trait which served me well later, or should I say at present.

I was also a contributor for a national magazine for two years. And, a freelance scriptwriter for some television programs.

Now, I only write when asked. I still do “freelance writing”. Last one I did (September & October 2006) was to write for Councilor Isko Moreno’s Audio Visual Presentation and comic book( for his political campaign).

And of course, I only write when I feel the “urge”. Like now.

Writing for me is a cruel mistress.

“What makes you a writer?” A question often asked of me by students and peers. And my usual answer is:

First, I remember that there is a talent-giver from above; second, there are people and events, including patience and initiative, that propel me to my writing activity.

When you ask why I write, it’s like asking why one breathes. For some people, it’s essential to them that they breathe. Writing is something that I need to do. It’s more than a source of living. It’s my way of life.

A writer’s goal, I believe, is to write good and interesting stories. Of course, we will need certain techniques, or systems and starters.

According to Professor Frank L. Lucas, these are the ingredients of writing:

Humor, intelligence, enthusiasm and imagination.

Why?

A writer always seeks for things that are similar and contradictory around his/ her environment.

The job of the writer is to let people see the things he sees. We have to see to see. Are you aware that there lies a small person in each and every one of us? This small person likes mystery and craziness.

A writer should not avoid emotion. Don’t play safe. Writing is an act of faith.

Above everything, a writer should always remember that life is the best teacher.

There is no single formula in writing.

Imagination is the main ingredient of a writer.

At present, there are numerous elements, and everything is given to you. You don’t have time anymore to use your imagination. You are becoming passive. We don’t know how to focus anymore.

But if you will write you need to focus. On the first level, we use what we call the craft of writing — meaning the techniques and devices. But once you reach the second level, you are lost in this world already. Your soul and the soul of your subject are now the ones talking.

Let me share with you some survival tips, which I always share to my students in our Writing for Radio & TV class:

Writing is a collaborative effort. Part of the fun is in discovering that there are friends who share your passion and madness. That’s why I always encourage group discussions in my class. “Two heads or more are better.”

Always carry some extra cash. I encourage my students to watch movies. I ask them to watch 3 or 4 films a week. I encourage them to buy books and read. I call it “social expense” — it’s all part of the investment!

Maintain your sense of humor. During the writing phase, there will be times when technology will get in the way of your writing objectives. There will be moments when you think you have struck that spark of brilliance, only to be jarred when a crank phone caller suddenly disturbs your existence.

Practice instant recall. Learn the art of speed thinking. In my class, I asked my students to always have a story prepared. If worse comes to worst, confess a secret but make sure it has the proper dramatic elements.

Experts always say the secret of writing is rewriting.

Learn from your writing errors.

Don’t forget to be normal again.

In life, you are the most important person in your world. So, it is for writing. Look within you, your creation, for inspiration, for ideas.

As writers, learn to keep an open mind. Being open encompasses everything. Like me, my life is an “open book”. Even with your style. I remember telling my former student, that she should not stick with just one particular style. You have to have an open mind when it comes to experimenting writing style.

For me, these are the two very important ingredients needed in a writer:

First and foremost, the discipline to sit down and write. The technicalities and mechanics you can learn from a textbook or via the internet but you have to sit down and write.

Secondly, you must not be afraid to try something new. You must not be afraid to push your imagination and not get trapped by the limitations being given. Because your breakthrough as a writer is not being another Lualhati Bautista, Ricky Lee, Jessica Zafra or any other famous writer. We already have Lualhati, Ricky and Jessica. You need to be somebody new in order to be noticed.

So there’s discipline and courage.

Because even before you take your first step there’ll be 20 people beating you on the head.