How Does Success Change a Writer?

Do you think success as a writer--however you define it--changes your work? Does having a wider audience and/or wider acceptance of your work improve or deteriorate the quality of your writing?

Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of Eat, Love, Pray, has received mixed reviews on her latest book, Committed. One of the reviewers I read stated:

The only event more hazardous to a writer’s career than a book’s catastrophic failure is its meteoric success.

What do you think? If you published a best-seller, how would it change your writing? How would it change you?
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Article Quoted From: http://tiny.cc/UbURC

Photo courtesy of Zsuzsanna Kilian at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1235996

The Stairs & Other Writing Prompts

If you've been here before, you know the drill. Find a prompt that grabs your attention. Freewrite for ten minutes. When you're done, you might have the start of something... or you might not. Don't worry about the end product. Just write!

At the top of the stairs....

"I'll say this slowly. You can threaten me all you want, but you'll never...."

Have you ever had a murder in your neighborhood?

Combine a paperclip, white paint, and a bookmark in a story or poem.

Linda fell on the....

How many pets currently reside in your home?

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Photo courtesy of Amazed646 at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1243209

Ellen in the Car & Other Writing Prompts

Why is Ellen sitting in her car? What’s inside John’s house that she doesn’t want to face? You can use writing prompt number one to freewrite for ten minutes, but if Ellen and John don’t inspire you, pick another. Grab that pen and paper, or fire up Word, and just write!

--Ellen sat in the car. She knew she had to go into John’s house, but she didn’t want to go inside because….

--At the fork in the road, Jake hesitated. Should he take the faster route, or the scenic route? He finally decided….

--Did you make any New Year’s resolutions?

--Susan was firm. “I don’t want to talk about it anymore. No matter what you say, I’m going to….”

--Do you collect anything? How did your collection get started?

--When Daniel sorted through the mail, he was thrilled to find….

--Beyond the rusty gate….

--Combine a tree, a sweater, and a stove in a story or poem.
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Photo courtesy of Troy Stoi at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/519555

Double Meaning

Have you ever used a term and later realized that it may not have been taken the way you intended? For writers, this is always a concern. I like to tell people that’s why I’m a writer first and a speaker second—I like the opportunity to make sure I’m clear. When I write a sentence that I later judge could be taken more than one way, I can edit it. When a sentence falls out of my mouth that I later realize might not have carried the meaning I intended, I can only cringe.

Today I was talking to my writing group about the depth of detail necessary to make a dramatic scene work—and that if a writer builds up to a moment of suspense, a payoff is required. Readers want to hear the details about the heist, the murder, or the romance. It's the moment for which they've been waiting. “It’s the money shot,” I said to the group. I was at home later, working on my blogs, when I realized that term can be taken in more than one way. When I said it, I was thinking of the term as it relates to paparazzi getting a clear shot of celebrity, but the original term refers to a much coarser event (go check Google if you don’t know).

Oh dear.

All I could do was laugh and blush at the same time.

Do you check your work for double meanings? Have you ever realized, after the words were spoken or printed, that your figure of speech might have been taken the wrong way? Just as misplaced modifiers can hang off the wrong word, a misused reference can leave the wrong impression. Sometimes the result is merely comical, and sometimes it’s embarrassing.
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Photo courtesy of Jay Simmons at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1038796

Holiday Parties & Other Writing Prompts

Since the Just Write writing group will be on break until January 6, I cooked up a extra-large helping of prompts for today's meeting. Two of us tackled prompt number one with memories of alcohol-saturated parties (not necessarily the writers' saturation, might I add), but we also heard Emma’s letter to Santa, a story about bailing a friend out of jail, and a poem about that shattered mirror. Now it’s your turn. Pick a prompt that intrigues you and write for ten minutes without stopping, stalling, or second-guessing the direction you’ve chosen. Just write!

--‘Tis the season for holiday parties. Write about a memorable holiday party you attended.

--Are you an early bird or a night owl?

--“Dear Santa,” Emma wrote, “I don’t know if you can help me this year. But what I really what for Christmas is….”

--John saw the footprints. He leaned down to inspect them, and he was surprised at what he saw. “My God, that looks like….”

--Combine a plastic bag, a gift certificate, and a boulder in a story or poem.

--Have you ever had to bail someone out of jail?

--Marge was a hypochondriac, but this time it appeared she had a legitimate ailment. Harry was sick of her complaints, and he told her, “Look, I know you don’t feel good, but I’ve never heard of anyone dying from….”

--Jack painted the room blue because….

--If your life were made into a movie, would it be a comedy or a tragedy?

--The mirror shattered….

--Beth snapped at her sister, “Have you lost your mind? What would posses you to buy something like that for Mom and Dad? What are they going to do with….”

--When the car died….
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Photo courtesy of Donald Cook at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/682154

Another Time or Place & Other Writing Prompts

If you could travel to any time or place, where would you go? That’s the subject of my first writing prompt today. Of course, if that prompt leaves you blank, pick another prompt for ten minutes of freewriting—write without stopping, stalling, or second-guessing yourself. Just write!

--If I could transport myself to any time or place, I would go to….

--“I don’t care about your holiday plans!” shouted Carl. “I refuse to….”

--Jennifer threw the glass paper weight across the room, hitting….

--What is your favorite holiday food?

--Do you like to offer unsolicited advice? Why or why not?
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Picture courtesy of Michel Marin at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1219003

Thanksgiving & Other Writing Prompts

In a few days, Americans will celebrate Thanksgiving. What memories do you have of this holiday? Take ten minutes to freewrite about your thoughts (or imagine yourself as a fictional character and invent some turkey day remembrances). If Thanksgiving leaves you uninspired, take another prompt and freewrite on it. Remember, freewriting means no stopping, stalling, or second-guessing yourself. Just write!

--Thanksgiving always make me think about….

--“I don’t know why you’re asking me these questions,” Delores insisted. “I was home all night. I don’t know a thing about….”

--Have you ever thrown a surprise party for someone?

--Combine a calculator, a camera, and a flower in a story or poem.

--Jason didn’t see the dog in the road….
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Picture courtesy of Joel Terrell at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1115586

The Lost Boy & Other Writing Prompts

What would you say to a lost child? What would you do? In prompt number one, Ida confronts that dilemma. If nothing springs to mind about Ida and the lost boy, skip on down to a prompt that conjurs an image. Freewrite for ten minutes. At the end of ten minutes, read over your work. Do you have the start of something? If not, don't worry. Writing is great brain exercise, you know. Well, what are you waiting for? Open up that word processor or grab your pen and paper, and just write!

--In the produce section at the grocery store, Ida saw a little boy standing by the carrots. He was crying, and he looked like he was alone. Ida walked up to him and said….

--How do you celebrate Thanksgiving?

--“It’s still 85 degrees outside! We don’t need the heat on,” snapped Phil. “I’ve been on the phone for an hour now. I just want you to….”

--What’s the most unusual thing in your home?

--“I knew you were lying,” Janet said. “But I’d lie, too, if I’d been caught….”

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Photograph courtesy of Mette Finderup at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/959020

Hiking & Other Writing Prompts

Pick a prompt that intrigues you. Freewrite for ten minutes. At the end of ten minutes, you might have the start of a bigger story, or you might not. Just write!

--Do you (or did you) like to hike or camp? What are your experiences with the great outdoors?

--Charlie said to Ed, “Sure, he thinks we stole it. But we both know….

--I remember a big storm in….

--Have you ever had a cat for a pet? What have your experiences been like with cats?

--“You might think I’m just a crazy old showgirl,” Veronica said. “But I’m telling you that I saw….

--Do you have a video camera? What do you shoot footage of, and how often do you look at the tape?

--Darlene was angry at the computer. All her writing, all her pictures—poof! Just like that, they were all gone, and all Darlene could think about was….

--Combine a child’s drawing, a ruler, and a paperweight into a story or poem.

--If I have to speak in public, I….

--Do you have a fear of heights? Do you know anyone who does?
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Picture courtesy of Angela Granger at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/607241

The Pouring Rain & Other Writing Prompts

I've got a double batch of writing prompts today. Grab a prompt that inspires you and freewrite for ten minutes. Don't think about what you'll eventually do with your work--just write!

--Jack sat in the pouring rain. He was drenched, but he didn’t care. He didn’t care about anything because….

--What is your favorite song or type of music?

--Alice had done her best to overcome her dislike of Halloween, but….

--If you could be a professional athlete, what sport would you play? Why?

--Rupert scowled at Angie. “I told you we had to get rid of the body. Now we have to….

--The picture in Greg’s wallet reminded him of….

--George was furious. He shouted at his daughter, “Haven’t you ever heard ‘a penny saved is a penny earned’? Don’t you see how wasteful it is to….

--What’s the most unusual pet you’ve ever had?

--On a sunny, pleasant fall afternoon, Betty decided it was time to….

--Linda and Ellen stared into the store’s display window. “I’m really not sure what that is,” said Linda. “My best guess is….
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Picture courtesy of Linden Laserna at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/299519

The Digital Camera & Other Writing Prompts

My writing group came up with some very interesting ideas about what Beth found (or didn't find) on her camera when she got it back from John. What do you think? Grab your favorite writing implement and freewrite for ten minutes--if not about the camera situation, then about one of the other prompts. Let your imagination lead you where it may. Don't worry about spelling, grammar, or even if you're remaining on topic. Just write!

--When Beth got her new digital camera back from John, she was surprised to find….

--What do you think of the philosophy “there are no accidents”?

--The one bad habit I’d like to change is….

--The farm was 30 miles from town, so Justin knew….

--How do you define a good writing day?

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Photo courtesy of Michal Zacharzewski at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1127832

Children, Guilt, and Writing Centers

Do you give much thought to the things that influence your writing? The list of possible influences is long, but we'll look at just three today: children, guilt, and resources. The presence (or absence) of children can play an important role in writing; they can be inspiring and interrupting, sometimes all at the same time. Some writers feel guilty when they write about other people and may even avoid certain topics because they don't want to violate anyone's privacy. And while technically all you need is a piece of paper and a pencil to write, unanswered questions can stymie a writer. Writing centers for students are common--why not for adults?

Children and Writing

Have children—whether they are your own kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or students—affected and/or influenced your writing? Do you find children inspiring (or, conversely, uninspiring)? Do you think of future generations when you write? I thought about these questions when I read the article, “Writer finds children inspire fresh take on life and language” from the Grand Rapids Free Press. Here’s an excerpt:

Liesel Litzenburger looks at the world in a whole new way these days, and she thanks her 2-year-old twins for the change.

"The process of having kids and being a mother radically changed my thinking on a lot of things," she said.

"I used to tell my students that cliches are cliches because they're so true they get worn out with use. So the cliche about a mother's love as absolute is absolutely true for me. My children are my center, my heart."

The Guilt of Observation

Do you ever feel guilty about writing about other people? Here’s an excerpt from “Writer’s Guilt” by Calen Crain at Atlantic Online:

The Depression-era writer who thought most—and felt guiltiest—about what it meant to make art out of suffering was probably James Agee. In “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men” (1941), his book-length essay about three families of tenant farmers in Alabama, illustrated with photographs taken by the F.S.A.’s Walker Evans, Agee seems sickened by his freedom to write about the unhappiness of others. When, for example, in the course of his reporting, Agee inadvertently startles a young black couple by walking up behind them, he writes that “the least I could have done was to throw myself flat on my face and embrace and kiss their feet.” A sort of trespassing is involved in writing about other people, even when the writing is as gentle as one can manage, just as it’s a violation, however mild, to photograph a person, even though it’s in an artist’s nature to want to capture experience.

(The complete text of Crain’s article is on his blog, “Steamboats Are Ruining Everything,” along with several links to the digitized versions of pictures by Walker Evans, the photographer who accompanied Agree.)

Why not an adult writing center?

Since I get Google alerts on all sorts of writing topics, I recently came across an article about the opening of a new student writing center at a university—a place where students could get help not only with research papers, but also with resumes, letters, and other writing projects. What a terrific resource! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if adults who are out of school had a writing center, a place to get help with their writing projects? The simplest things can stall a writer’s progress. One of the most frequent dilemmas I encounter from writers in the senior age group, for instance, is how they can get a manuscript typed, particularly in a computer format. I’ve facilitated an adult writing group for eight years, and some of the questions I frequently get are: What’s the difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing? How can I get a book published traditionally? How do I get an article published? If I’m not interested in publishing, what’s the heck do I do with all this stuff I’ve written? How do I deal with the negative emotions/memories I encounter when I write? How do I learn how to use a computer and/or word processor? Clearly, school-age students aren’t the only ones with questions about writing. What would an adult writing center look like to you? Do you think it would encourage people to keep writing, or to start writing?
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Picture courtesy of Pablo Medina at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1217288

The Deserted Beach & Other Writing Prompts

Pick a writing prompt that intrigues you and freewrite for ten minutes--that means writing without stopping or second-guessing yourself. Don't think about how the story will turn out--just write!



--The deserted beach was a beautiful place, and Linda enjoyed her daily walks alone until the day she….

--What form of writing would you most like to master? Poetry? Essay? Short story? Why?

--Kevin smelled it before he saw it. It was an unmistakable odor. Before he walked into the yard, he knew he would find….

--“I’ve lived alone for a long time,” Gertrude told her grandson. “So if you want to move in with me, even temporarily, I must insist….”

--How do you feel about junk mail? Do you read it, or do you toss it in the trash without opening it?

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Picture courtesy of John Byer at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1099096

Technology, History, and Keeping Your Audience in Mind

What do you think about technology’s role in writing, writing about notable historic moments, and making your allusions understandable to your audience? You might want to check out the following articles and posts to explore some of these questions.

Technology

How has technology changed your writing? Modern technology has given writers the Internet and self-publishing—and allowed us to ditch the carbon paper and Wite-Out. But if you’ve read a text message written by your kids or grandkids, you may be worried about technology’s effect on writing. Read this article, “Technology changing way students view writing,” for a different take on why modern inventions may be G8 for today’s kids.

Watershed Moments

If you’ve visited Sharon Lippincott’s blog, The Heart and Craft of Life Writing, you may have read her post about September 11, “Watershed Memories.” Do you write about the defining moments of our day? Whether you are journaling, writing memoir, or composing fiction, the events we experience collectively can give important structure to our work. In my writing group, this topic expanded to include not just single momentous events, like 9/11, but also eras or long-term occurrences like the Depression, the Holocaust, and the Vietnam War. In former times, passing down stories between generations was common. Do you remember sitting on the porch and listening to older relatives talk, or attending a family reunion? Sadly, these are memories that fewer and fewer people have. Our scattered families also scatter our stories. Are you taking the time to write about the important events in your life?

Outdated References

How much thought do you give to you references and allusions? Do you keep your audience in mind? The annual Beloit College Mindset List gives us insight into references that younger people may not understand. Here’s an excerpt from the AP article that covered the list this year: “For most teens starting college this fall, rap music has always been mainstream, Mike Tyson has always been a felon, and wars have always unfolded on TV in real time.”

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Picture courtesy of Zsuzsanna Kilián at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1204276

The Boys & Other Writing Prompts

Today’s prompts start with a social question. What does Sam need to do to get along with the other boys? For a twist on this prompt, change the “he” to “she” and see how the story changes. (Yes, there are female Sams. I’ve known a few.) If Sam and his (or her) social dilemmas leave you cold, skip on down to another prompt. Pick one and freewrite for ten minutes. Let go of any expectations about how your work will turn out…just write!

--Sam was sure he would get along fine with the other boys, if only he….

--How did you learn how to type?

--“Of course I feel bad,” snarled Steve. “I just had surgery to remove my….”

--If only I could find the time, I would learn how to….

--Lucy was delighted. She had an entire day all to herself, and she was just getting ready to enjoy it when….
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Photo courtesy of Valdas Zajanckauskas at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1092773

School & Other Writing Prompts

The smell of freshly sharpened pencils, the hint of crispness in the air, assigned seating, and the social minefield of the lunchroom... it must be the start of a new school year! Get some school spirit for prompt number one. Or scroll down and find something else that wakes up your muse. Take ten minutes to freewrite on any of these topics, or anything that they bring to mind. You won't be graded, so don't worry about what will become of your story/poem/essay--just write!

--The end of summer means the beginning of a new school year. When you were still in school, how did you feel about this time of year? Did you like school, or dread its arrival?

--Albert was puzzled about his lawn. It was dying, but he had no idea why until he discovered….

--Have you ever undertaken a do-it-yourself home renovation or repair?

--Mary planned Jack’s party for months. She sent almost a hundred invitations, but on the day of the party….

--The one thing that really makes me nervous is….
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Photo courtesy of Tiffany Szerpick at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1193228

Superior Scribbler Award

When I opened my e-mail on Monday, I found something wonderful in my in-box. Sharon Lippincott, blog author of The Heart and Craft of Life Writing, gave me the Superior Scribbler Award! Normally I’m overflowing with words, but in this instance, all I could say was “Wow!” To echo Sharon’s words, receiving this recognition was unexpected and much appreciated. It’s easy to wonder who’s reading your blog—or if anyone is reading your blog, on some days—and the Scribbler was a big dose of encouragement for me.

When I went searching for five fellow bloggers to nominate (a part of the Superior Scribbler recipient’s duties), I spent an entire afternoon reading through blogs, something I don’t take enough time to do these days. I also realized how many writers I’ve met through Twitter, and in fact two of the Scribblers are bloggers/writers I’ve met through this new social networking site.

You’ll notice a definite trend with the bloggers to whom I’ve awarded the Superior Scribbler. Since I’m a professional writer who writes not only as a career, but also as a passion, I’m drawn to people who combine inspiration and information. Visit these blogs, and you’ll learn about writing from true professionals, get some tips on bringing wellness into your life, feel like you’ve had a visit with a friend over a cyber cup of java, and learn about great places to see in South Florida.

The five new winners of the Superior Scribbler Award:

Inkthinker by Kristen King. I discovered Kristen several years ago, and I’ve never failed to find encouragement and practical advice on her blog. Kristen is witty and accessible, and always informative. She’s a successful working writer, a goal many have but few achieve.

Real Words from a Real Writer by Kathryn Vercillo. I met Kathryn on Twitter, that ubiquitous social network. She’s a business blogger and professional writer who gives her view into the writing world.

Wellness Journeys Stepping Stones by Ellen H. Brown. I also met Ellen on Twitter, and her blog gives wonderful information on the balance and wellness we all seek, especially if you’re an entrepreneur (as so many writers are).

Coffee With Merina by Merina. Yes, it’s just what it says—a blog that makes you feel like you sat down for a visit with a friend. You’ll find a little reminiscing, some reflections on life, and a few words about books she’s just read.

My Fabulous Florida by Christine Michaels. Christine and I both sent in videos for the well-publicized job in Australia on Hamilton Island. Neither of us got the job (the lucky winner was Ben Southall), but both of us are still blogging about what’s going on in our respective cities; I write about Las Vegas and Christine writes about Miami.

I’m happy to let all the winners know that no public appearances are required, and you don’t have to do anything embarrassing on television (like walking around in a swimsuit, a la Miss America). However, recipients are asked to abide by these rules:

1. Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving Bloggy Friends.

2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author and the name of the blog from whom he/she has received the Award.

3. Each Superior Scribbler must display the Award on his/her blog, and link to this post, (http://scholastic-scribe.blogspot.com/2008/10/200-this-blings-for-you.html) which explains the Award.

4. Each Blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor!

5. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

Thank you, Sharon, for awarding me the Superior Scribbler, and thank you to the authors to whom I've passed the award--I appreciate your words!

The Helicopter & Other Writing Prompts

Why are the police buzzing around in prompt number one? Only you can answer that question. If police helicopters leave your imagination blank, move on to another prompt. Take ten minutes to freewrite without stopping, stalling, or second-guessing yourself. Just write!


--Janet watched the police helicopter circling over her house. She wondered what was going on, but she didn’t have to wonder for long. To her amazement, she saw….

--How has the current economic recession affected your friends and family?

--George laughed before he told his grandson, “I wish I’d saved more money, kiddo, but the truth is….”

--Think back to your school days. How well do you remember the weeks between summer's end and school's start? What stands out in your mind about that time? Did you look forward to being back in the classroom, or did you dread it?
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Photo courtesy of madmick99 at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/507582

Nuts & Bolts Workshop For Authors: August 15 & 16

In case you missed the ads in the paper, the Nuts & Bolts Workshop for Authors is this coming weekend, August 15 & 16, 1 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. It's a free workshop sponsored by the Clark County Library District and Stephens Press. The workshop will be held at the Clark County Library, 1401 East Flamingo Road. I highly recommend this workshop, especially if you are a new or unpublished writer. The workshop's schedule:

Saturday, August 15

1:00 - 2:15 : Publishing Basics - How It All Works (Presented by Carolyn Hayes Uber, Stephens Press Publisher)

2:30 - 3:45: Polish Up That Manuscript! (Presented by Maralys Wills)

4:00 - 5:15: The Art of Editing (Presented by Jami Carpenter)

Sunday, August 16 - Art of the Memoir

1:00 - 2:15 : The Storyteller (Presented by Maralys Wills)

2:30 - 3:45: Thanks for the Memories (Presented by Jami Carpenter)

4:00 - 5:15: Now What? (Presented by Carolyn Hayes Uber)

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Photo courtesy of G & A Scholiers at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/957999

Rejection is a Two-Way Street

Writers become accustomed to rejection, but we can overlook the fact that we’re also allowed to say no. Sometimes it’s a wise move to reject a potential client or publication. When I first started out, I accepted every writing gig I was offered. I quickly discovered this is a poor strategy. Fortunately, I learned from my mistakes. Here are some of the specifics I’ve learned to examine before accepting a gig.

Rejection Reason #1: A Poorly Focused Publication

Writers are consistently told to narrowly focus their work. How often have you heard, “If you can’t describe your piece in one sentence, you’re not focused enough”? The same goes for publications. I’ve found this to be a larger issue with websites than print publications.

In my early freelance years, I answered a call for submissions to a new graphic design website. The site had one or two articles posted when I pitched them, but not really enough to give me a good idea of their editorial preferences. Since I know a highly successful graphic artist, I pitched a profile piece on her. I got a green light. I interviewed my friend and wrote a standard profile that described her background and accomplishments, the big-name accounts she’d done, and her creative process. Between my submission and later communication (and I use that term loosely) with the editor, I noticed that none of the work they were posting had any congruity. The site was an eclectic mish-mash of articles and photo essays tangentially related to graphic design in a very hard-to-define way. When I didn't hear anything, I followed up with the editor. All she said was that they weren’t sure they could use my piece. She gave absolutely not a shred of suggestion, direction, or their desired angle. I re-wrote the piece, doing my best to make it fit their website... except that I couldn’t get a good handle on what they were looking for. Her one-line response to my re-written article? “We cannot use this piece at all now.”

A few months ago, I answered a call for submissions from a writing-related website. The editor responded positively to my e-mail and expressed her willingness to see my work. When I read the website—and I read it closely three times—I could never get a handle on what they were looking for. It was an odd collection of stories about fashion, writing, and health tips, among other things. I decided not to pitch any pieces to them (for more than just this reason, which I’ll explain below).

Rejection Reason #2: Difficult Individuals

One of my early gigs was working with a lawyer who wanted me to create copy for a promotional folder. This seemed like an easy assignment. I met with him and thought I understood what sort of image he was hoping to convey. I saw him as an honest, down-to-earth person whom people could relate to and trust. That’s how I wrote the copy. I sent him the draft and made sure to tell him that it was a first draft, and that he should let me know if the direction was right, if the tone was correct, and so on. Despite repeated attempts to contact him, I didn’t hear from him until the day I received a fax from his office. It was a mutilated version of the copy I’d done for him, full of egregious grammatical errors. When I finally got him on the phone, he explained that he’d given it to his secretary to correct. I’ll admit I did a poor job of customer relations at this point. After I told him that his secretary had done nothing but put errors into my work (along with asking him a few other questions about why he had selected this English-challenged person to rewrite my work in the first place), he finally blurted out, “You made me sound like I was picking hayseed out of my teeth! I wanted to look more polished!” With that finally established, I re-wrote the copy to make him sound more sophisticated and sent it to him. I never heard another word from him, but I did notice that he switched his firm’s focus from estate planning to personal injury not long after.

Around the same time, I co-ghostwrote a memoir that turned into a nightmare. The client refused to accept any direction, editing, or suggestions about the content of the book. She also had a thick accent that made transcribing interviews with her almost impossible. Not surprisingly, no agent was interested in representing her book. She decided to self-publish. Since our contract only covered taking a percentage of the profits from traditional publication, my co-author and I received no money from the few copies this woman sold on her own.

Since that time, I’ve worked successfully with many individuals as an editor and coach. My guidelines for working with individuals are non-negotiable.

First, I don’t take ghostwriting jobs for book-length manuscripts. Unless you’re working with a celebrity, most clients don’t have the funds to pay you for the work this involves. I was approached by a woman who wanted someone to ghostwrite her book about being the unacknowledged originator of a well-known award show. I did a little research and found that she’d been peddling her story to newspapers for a while. She exhibited several signs of being a difficult client, so I declined.

Second, I don’t argue over grammar. I do not have the time to explain why ending a sentence with a preposition is not necessarily an error, why the punctuation marks almost always go inside the quotes, or why the placement of serial commas depends upon where you went to school. I tell people which dictionary and grammar guide I use, and if they insist on putting errors into their work against my advice, I simply tell them it’s wrong, but that it’s their call.

Third, if a client can’t be a partner in the process, I don’t want to work with them. Whether that means contributing part of the writing or simply returning phone calls, we have to establish a good working relationship that’s acceptable to both of us. If a client can’t (or won’t) communicate about what they want changed or done differently, our business is done. I make it absolutely clear that a first draft is meant to be changed, and that I need them to tell me what they like and don’t like about edits or suggestions. I’m a good writer, but I’m not a mind reader.

Fourth, I do not take deals for a future portion of profits. I don’t care how fabulous a story is, unless you can show me an agent or publisher who is willing to take the manuscript immediately, I require something up front for my time. Non-writers have no idea how much work a book entails, or how long the process to get it published can take. After ten or twenty rejections, they often decide to self-publish their book, which pretty much eliminates any possibility of a profit. I don’t know about you, but I’m not usually in a position to work for free.

I worked with a novelist a few years back who had dreams of selling his book as a screenplay. I made a deal for a per-page charge and a percentage of future profits. After he decided to self-publish, I at least had been compensated for my time. If you decide to take a project without any upfront payment, be sure it’s a project for which you’re willing to be unpaid.

Rejection Reason #3: Mysterious and/or Error-Riddled Publications

A couple of years ago, I was delighted to get a call from a woman who had found me on the Web. What writer doesn't love it when the client contacts you first instead of the other way around? She was a PR person looking for general interest articles for her direct-mail magazine/adverzine that was allegedly being sent to high-income households. She described it as a real estate and lifestyle magazine, but I can’t really say what kind of publication it was because she never sent me a copy. Although I was puzzled by her insistence that due to high printing costs they couldn’t spare even one extra copy for me to examine, I went ahead and took the assignment because she agreed to my rate without any fuss. A few months after I had been writing for her, I discovered she was trying to get a website started. Some of my articles were on her fledgling site, and I was horrified to find that not only were errors inserted in my work ("petroglyph" had been changed to "petro graph," for instance), but that her publication was filled with poorly written religiously-themed articles. I cringed at the thought that an unknown number of people had seen my byline in this publication.

Remember that poorly focused writing/fashion/health website that I decided not to pursue? It was also filled with errors. Clips from our work are part of our payment as writers; without good clips, we can’t pitch bigger and better publications. Any publication that makes you embarrassed to admit you wrote for them isn’t worth your time. Any publication that I have to chase down for copies (or payment) is also not likely to get repeat pitches from me.

When you’re just starting out, you’ll be tempted to take every offer you receive. I’ve found that waiting for the right offer is usually better than taking gigs that are headaches. Remember, rejection is a two-way street that you get to drive on, too.
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Photo courtesy of Svilen Mushkatov at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1139529 and http://bigphoto1.blogspot.com/