Old “new” writers
John Scalzi, recent winner of the Campbell Award for best new SF writer, has this glistening pearl of wisdom:
Yes, it’s ironic that being the best “new” writer is usually founded on years of practice and experience. On the other hand, show me any skilled discipline or profession where this is not, in fact, the case. (link)
This is quite important to remember, especially for those of us negotiating a career change…
It also reminds me of something Brian McDonald said in one of his classes, “If there’s something you want to do, you’ve got to love it enough to be bad at it.” This is the love that gets you through those preliminary years when you’re struggling, not feeling happy with your work.
