Inspirational. But missing one road block. Being told you're so good you're going to change the world. Of course, that came from my Mom and Moms are kind of obligated to be that kind of cheerleader (I'm aware not all are, mine was, on steroids). Whatever I did, it was going to change the world. It wasn't until I was able to drop that and pick up the "I write to write because I'm miserable when I don't" that I was able to actually write my truth, whatever it was, instead of needing to be good enough to save the world.
There've been one or two strangers who've reached out, and that's filled me up in a way I didn't know existed, that kind of intimacy with strangers. To be honest, I don't think I have the inner whatever to be adored or worshipped in the way, say Margaret Atwood is. Or even Jackie Susann.
So, not always the critics, sometimes it's the cheerleaders, although, I suppose, I was my own critic in this scenario, telling myself I wasn't good enough to measure up to the expecations put in front of me. Life is so...fucking lifey.
Wow, your words are so inspiring and I love, love, love your writing voice with all the fun details inserted that made me laugh.
I think I'll go write something right this minute. Thank you.
PS The NY Times lost out.....
Inspirational. But missing one road block. Being told you're so good you're going to change the world. Of course, that came from my Mom and Moms are kind of obligated to be that kind of cheerleader (I'm aware not all are, mine was, on steroids). Whatever I did, it was going to change the world. It wasn't until I was able to drop that and pick up the "I write to write because I'm miserable when I don't" that I was able to actually write my truth, whatever it was, instead of needing to be good enough to save the world.
There've been one or two strangers who've reached out, and that's filled me up in a way I didn't know existed, that kind of intimacy with strangers. To be honest, I don't think I have the inner whatever to be adored or worshipped in the way, say Margaret Atwood is. Or even Jackie Susann.
So, not always the critics, sometimes it's the cheerleaders, although, I suppose, I was my own critic in this scenario, telling myself I wasn't good enough to measure up to the expecations put in front of me. Life is so...fucking lifey.
Absolutely wonderful craft essay - I printed this for my desk. 💕
Thank you for this. I’m struggling to write my memoir because it’s intimidating and scary. This helps!
"Well begun is half done." -- Mary Poppins (courtesy of Aristotle ;)
This was such a fun read. And, of course, a rich mine of info. Thank you!