Creative Writing 101

Lesson 8: Lucky Dip.

Finally

LAST WORDS.

This course is an introduction to creative writing. This means there are many aspects of the subject that have been briefly mentioned, or left out altogether. Rather than try to cram these into this final section, I'd like to leave you with some points to ponder.

Enjoy your writing. If you choose writing as a pastime, make sure it brings you joy and satisfaction.

Ideally, you should be able to write for yourself as well as for other people. I think you should please yourself first of all. Later, if you decide to enter the public arena of publication, then you must try to please others as well.

Never let anyone tell you your writing is a waste of time. Whether or not you sell it for profit, you are learning and growing while you write. Just as a good run or swim works out your muscles, so a good session with the keyboard or pen works out your mind.

Never denigrate your chosen genre. Romance is every bit as worthy as literary fiction. Children's stories are just as valuable as thrillers. Fantasy is not better than science fiction. First person is not worse than third.

Accept that some kinds of writing are easier to sell than others. This does not make them either better or worse.

Accept that some people will always value some kinds of writing above others. This is their opinion, and a valid one. Your opinion is every bit as valid.

And remember this. Creativity is one of life's prizes. Value yours.

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