AEWCH 252: SARAH MARIA GRIFFIN - WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A WORKING WRITER?
Feb 1, 2024
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Sarah Maria Griffin, a fantasy and horror novelist, discusses the compulsion to write and the challenges of being a working writer. They also delve into the personal side of the publishing industry and the decline of public expression through writing. Sarah emphasizes the importance of zines and fan fiction for writers. They explore the subjective nature of excessive violence and the difference between living a dramatic life and creating dramatic stories.
Being a writer involves navigating the gap between imagination and reader, using symbols on a page to convey one's vision.
Writing is a solitary yet exhilarating journey that requires both individual dedication and external support.
Publishing involves sharing a writer's work with others, building relationships with agents and publishers, and appealing to a wider audience.
Being a writer is a multi-faceted job that requires storytelling skills, an understanding of the publishing industry, and connecting with readers.
Deep dives
The Complex Work of Being a Writer
Being a writer involves more than just the craft of writing stories and novels. It requires the work of being a writer, which is different than simply writing. Writers have to navigate the gap between themselves and readers, using symbols on a page to convey their imagination and hoping readers can recreate their vision. The act of writing is a form of divination or transmission, as ideas and stories come from somewhere unknown and must be expressed. Being a writer involves solitude and a deep connection to one's work, but it also requires navigating the publishing industry and building relationships with agents and publishers. Ultimately, writing is a solitary yet exhilarating journey that requires both individual dedication and external support.
The Intertwining of Writing and Publishing
Writing and publishing are two different realms that intersect when a writer shares their work with the world. As writers, the act of writing can be a solitary and personal experience, as they convey their thoughts and emotions through symbols and words. However, publishing involves sharing that work with others, with editors, publishers, and readers. The publishing journey can be both exciting and challenging, as it involves building relationships with agents and publishers, negotiating contracts, and finding an audience. Writers have to balance their individual creative process with the demands of the industry, understanding that while writing may be a personal passion, publishing involves working with others and appealing to a wider audience.
The Loneliness and Freedom of Writing
Writing is a solitary pursuit, where writers are often alone with their thoughts and words as they craft stories and ideas. This solitude can be both liberating and isolating, as writers delve into their imaginations and transcribe their visions onto the page. The process of writing can feel like an act of divination, with ideas and stories flowing from unknown sources. However, this personal journey can also lead to a sense of loneliness, as writers can't fully express their work until it reaches readers. Writers must find a balance between this solitude and the necessary engagement with the publishing industry, which requires sharing their work with others and navigating the demands of the market.
The Desire to Focus Solely on Writing
Many writers dream of being able to dedicate themselves solely to the act of writing, free from the distractions of other jobs and responsibilities. The work of a writer is deeply personal and fulfilling, and being able to focus solely on writing can bring immense joy and satisfaction. Writers often feel a strong compulsion to write, with ideas and stories constantly bubbling up within them. While other activities and jobs may bring fulfillment and serve as creative outlets, the desire to write is often a driving force for writers. The ideal scenario for many writers would be to have the freedom to fully immerse themselves in their craft.
The Complexity of Being a Writer
Being a writer is a multi-faceted job that requires storytelling skills, writing abilities, an understanding of the publishing industry, and connecting with readers. It is not just about having a flair for stylish sentences or dramatic descriptions, but also about striking a balance between creating engaging narratives and the responsibilities that come with it. While storytelling can be exhilarating, it can also be emotionally challenging, requiring writers to navigate dark and intense themes. Writers often grapple with the line between immersing themselves in their stories and protecting their mental well-being. Additionally, there is a constant search for inspiration and ideas, with writers being both observers of the world and creators of their own worlds. Ultimately, being a writer entails a delicate interplay between craft, personal experiences, and the desires of an audience.
The Delicate Art of Writing Horror
Writing horror requires the writer to strike a delicate balance between providing a thrilling experience for the reader and taking care not to overwhelm them. While some readers seek to be confronted and assaulted by intense and graphic scenes, it is crucial for writers to ensure that the right balance of tension and safety is achieved. The task becomes even more complex when incorporating elements of danger and terror into a story, while also maintaining a sense of trust with the reader. This trust can be nurtured by offering a thread of hope, however subtle, amidst the darkness. It is a challenging craft that requires a deep understanding of storytelling techniques and the ability to tap into the reader's emotions while maintaining a sense of control.
The Varied Paths of Writers and the Importance of Individuality
Being a writer is a unique journey for every individual, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success. Writers have different strengths and weaknesses, and their paths may diverge significantly based on personal preferences and goals. Some writers excel at storytelling, while others thrive in the business and promotional aspects of the industry. It is essential for writers to recognize their individual skills and desires, to find their own rhythm and style. While there may be unifying factors among writers, such as the need for resilience in the face of rejection, there is room for diverse perspectives and approaches within the writing community. Ultimately, the key lies in finding a balance between personal fulfillment, career development, and the ever-evolving landscape of the writing world.
