Writer's Necessities
I normally get a late start on the next Missouri Writers, Ink topic. However the membership gave me some food for thought last time. They want to start at the beginning.
What does a writer need to write? Imagination goes without listing. What physical items should a writer have?
1) At one time pen or pencil and paper was the standard. Then the typewriter arrived. Both of these are still doable. I prefer a computer - mine is a desktop but laptop will work - and a printer. In other words, a way to physically write down the story.
2) A dictionary is essential to me. I keep a standard one beside my computer tower and an unabridged elsewhere. At the moment it is putting pressure on the plant press. (This does not mean I don't consult it only that the press needs its weight.)
3) Vocabulary is one of the special things about English. Yet most people use only a few of the huge range of possible words. I add a thesaurus, actually several versions, to my list of necessities.
4) Oh, those hated English textbooks! Yet a handbook of English grammar is one of the necessities for me. This needs to be up-to-date as rules do change. I also have a teacher's edition of a workbook and occasionally do some review work. Yes, a writer can hire an editor but the editor shouldn't have to rewrite a book for grammar.
5) A standard workplace and time makes sure a writer actually does some writing. At least they give a writer the opportunity to write.
That's as far as I've gotten so far. I'm sure there are more or other opinions as to the necessities for a writer. Perhaps readers would care to share some with me.
What does a writer need to write? Imagination goes without listing. What physical items should a writer have?
1) At one time pen or pencil and paper was the standard. Then the typewriter arrived. Both of these are still doable. I prefer a computer - mine is a desktop but laptop will work - and a printer. In other words, a way to physically write down the story.
2) A dictionary is essential to me. I keep a standard one beside my computer tower and an unabridged elsewhere. At the moment it is putting pressure on the plant press. (This does not mean I don't consult it only that the press needs its weight.)
3) Vocabulary is one of the special things about English. Yet most people use only a few of the huge range of possible words. I add a thesaurus, actually several versions, to my list of necessities.
4) Oh, those hated English textbooks! Yet a handbook of English grammar is one of the necessities for me. This needs to be up-to-date as rules do change. I also have a teacher's edition of a workbook and occasionally do some review work. Yes, a writer can hire an editor but the editor shouldn't have to rewrite a book for grammar.
5) A standard workplace and time makes sure a writer actually does some writing. At least they give a writer the opportunity to write.
That's as far as I've gotten so far. I'm sure there are more or other opinions as to the necessities for a writer. Perhaps readers would care to share some with me.
No comments have been added yet.
