So the guy who's never done a writing workshop, never studied journalism, never taken a class in English Literature, never read anything more than comics or muscle mags for the first twenty years of his life - and wouldn't know a pronoun from a protein - is surely not the person to give anyone advice on becoming a writer.
Surely not. Nonetheless, I'm gonna give it a crack. Of course.
If you want advice from the least qualified, least trained writing teacher on the planet, you've come to the right place. Despite my obvious lack of qualifications and credibility to advise anyone on becoming a writer, I regularly receive feedback that people enjoy my writing style (much to my amazement and humble appreciation - I didn't even know I had a style!) and I constantly get asked for advice on how to become a writer.
Step 1. Get up tomorrow, look in the mirror and say to yourself "I'm a writer." See that was easy; now you're a writer. If people question you, tell them "Craig said I'm a writer." I'll send you a certificate if you really need one. Now the key is to be a good writer. That may take a little more time and effort.
Here are some recent comments on some of my stuff:
This post is a freakin revelation. I love the way you think and communicate. Nobody writes like you. Don't stop.
Kelly R.
Hi Craig, Love the site, especially the blogs. I'm a massive fan of the blunt manner in which you write so keep up the great work!
Jane, Melbourne
Your writing inspires me and gives me something to look forward to every day. Please do not stop writing.
Luciana, Belize City, Belize
Thanx Craig on this two part letter series, your writing is amazing.
Shelly
No, I didn't write those comments myself and I don't share them to impress you or to pump up my already out-of-control, enormous ego, but rather to impress upon you that you don't need a degree in English Literature to become a well-read, well-received, accomplished writer.
Or for people to dig your ideas, thoughts and message. Or for people to connect with you.
We've all got at least one great idea, message or story in us; it's whether or not we choose to share that with the world and how we go about it. Many (many, many, many) incredibly talented and successful professional writers have zero training and qualifications. Having a qualification doesn't make you are writer.
Article comments
1 - Elvira Black
Good advice, Craig! Enjoyed this.
2 - Partha Bhattacharya
Clever putting your views the way you've, but I admire this article. No doubt you write what you speak, even though I haven't had luck to hear you do.