How Does A Writer Know They Are Good Enough? by UCLA Professor Richard Walter
Film Courage・1 minute read
Professional writers constantly struggle with their work, unlike dating, and must make personal decisions on when to abandon characters, with Richard Walter suggesting that true writers are driven by internal compulsion rather than external validation. Seeking advice on writing topics is discouraged, as genuine writers should be passionate about their subjects to connect with audiences effectively.
Insights
- Professional writers are constantly dissatisfied with their work, viewing writing as a challenging and arduous process compared to the potential ease of dating.
- Richard Walter suggests that true writers are internally driven to write, cautioning against seeking external validation or advice on what to write about, emphasizing the importance of personal passion in engaging audiences effectively.
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Recent questions
How do professional writers view their work?
Writers are never fully satisfied, find writing a struggle.
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Summary
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Struggle and passion in the writing process
- Richard Walter emphasizes that professional writers are never fully satisfied with their work, as writing is always a struggle and a painful process, unlike dating where things can eventually work out.
- Writers are often unsure when to abandon a character, with the decision being a personal one that requires extensive self-reflection and sometimes taking a break from the script before revisiting it.
- Walter advises that if someone needs to ask whether they should continue writing, they likely shouldn't pursue it, as true writers are driven by an inner compulsion to write rather than seeking external validation.
- Seeking advice on what to write about from others, such as agents or producers, is discouraged, as true writers should be passionate about their subjects to engage audiences effectively.
