'Go and write a book'

 

“I hate politics. I like to writeabout it, but to get involved in it, to try and make a lot of ignorant peopledo what you want them to do, waste of time. Go and write a book. It's moreimportant and it'll last longer.” –Wilbur Smith

 

Born in northern Rhodesia (nowZambia) on this date in 1933, Smith was the son of a metal worker turnedrancher.  He grew up on that ranch thenworked as a police officer and accountant before turning to his real love –writing.  After being rejected multiple times, he finally brokethrough with When The Lion Feeds, leading to a spectacular writingcareer that produced 5 dozen novels.

 

He followed his initial book withthree long series about the South African experience, all bestsellers.  Then he wrote a series of historical novelsset in Ancient Egypt, the last three co-authored with Mark Chadbourn andreleased after his death in 2021.  Thatseries started with 1993’s River God and ended with 2023’s Testament. Many of his books also have been made into popular movies.   

 

His advice to new writers wassimple: “Write for yourself, not for a perceived audience . . . because it'simpossible to judge what people want.   Andyou have to read. That's how you learn what is good writing and what is bad.Then the main thing is application. It's hard work.”