Puny – definition: slight or inferior in power, size, or importance : weak

As writers we all have our literary heroes. These people  inspire but also intimidate us. Why? Because we feel puny compared to their expertise, their skill at the craft of writing and in the most part, their famous status. However, are they really that ‘remote’ that they would not offer advice to a novice?

Take for example, Stephen King (OK, I realize he is not everyone’s favorite but he is one of mine!) He shared a great deal in his book ‘On Writing‘ – a book I highly recommend by the way. As we all know writing a book is not the easiest task so for Mr. King to take the time to write this, I feel, is worth its weight in gold.

http://www.amazon.ca/On-Writing-Stephen-King/dp/0743455967

Of course his book is not the only source of writing style, crafting or tutorial tips – just search an internet site for books and a long list appears. The trick is finding one that closely mimics your style or level of expertise as well as how it ‘teaches’ you.

Stephen surprised high school students with a lecture – see here:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/10/22/nb-stephen-king-sussex-students.html

I endeavor to share my knowledge and experience as much as possible because I want other writers to succeed in whatever form they perceive that to be. I’m not famous and probably never will be but that isn’t the point – sharing knowledge in this writing community gives me pleasure. I hope that we can all learn something from each other and if the fate’s allow have a modicum of success. This could be having our novel published in some way or reading our work to an audience or having a short run for our family. No matter what form it takes we are sharing our words and they will live forever.

A letter I received directly from Stephen King holds pride of place on my wall. It is my constant reminder that I need to continue to learn and continue to share.