It's the first Wednesday in October so it's time for the IWSG post!
This month's question is a good one:
When you think of the term working writer, what does that look like to you? What do you think it is supposed to look like? Do you see yourself as a working writer or aspiring or hobbyist, and if latter two, what does that look like?
To me a working writer is a writer who publishes. Doesn't have to be novels. It could be articles, short stories, poetry, blog posts - anything. It could be in print or online. It doesn't even matter if the writer is being paid for the work.
But that's just how I see it. I'm not sure how the industry defines a working writer, if they do so at all.
I certainly see myself as a working writer because not only do I publish novels and short stories, but I write in my day job too. I also write for a group blog which, while unpaid, is very rewarding.
To be realistic, anyone who carves out time to write on a regular basis can probably call themselves a working writer. If you're putting in the time, regardless of what happens with those words, you're a writer. You're working.
I feel like you're only a hobbyist if you write purely for yourself, if you have no intention or desire to get your words in front of readers. There's nothing wrong with that. If you're happy, and the writing itself is something you enjoy, then go for it.
And I've always hated the term 'aspiring' when it comes to writing. Even if you're not published yet, if you sit down regularly and bang out words, then you're a writer. You're not aspiring to be a writer. Maybe if you sit around and think about writing without ever picking up a pen...
But that's just me. How would you define a working writer?
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ReplyDeleteI've always hated the term 'aspiring' when it comes to writing, too. If you write, you can go ahead and call yourself a writer. I'm a working writer...just not an overly successful one. :)
ReplyDeleteI have no idea. Sometimes the more I think about what words mean the less answer I have.
ReplyDeleteI’m a stickler. If the effort isn’t being made to be as good a writer as you can be, “hobbyist” and “aspiring” are apt terms. They don’t really qualify. I don’t consider you a writer if your interest isn’t really the art of it. Because if you’re just writing because you want to write, then you’re not a writer. You’re just someone who loves to write.
ReplyDeleteI always refer to those who attend my workshops as writers. I have my MFA in writing and am both traditionally and self published, but what makes me a writer is writing. I don't see how not being published invalidates anyone's work. Great post. Happy IWSG Day!
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