I was asked a question the other day that shot my eyebrows up and would have had me reaching for oxygen if there had been any handy. " Besides writing, do you read?" This was a bud that asked and in fairness it was probably a rhetorical question that was just to introduce an author this person liked. But it took me by surprise. For most writers, we practically come out of the womb with a book in our hand. I'm convinced that's why labor is so painful. Ha. Reading is like breathing and eating, it's necessary to sustain life. I can't imagine, and seriously doubt if such a creature exists, as an author that doesn't read. Have you ever been asked this question?
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
IWSG Wednesday
The
first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Members
post about their doubts and fears, discuss struggles and triumphs, and offer
words of encouragement to others who are struggling. And as always, a thank you to Alex Cavanaugh for caring enough to form this group and the folks that help maintain it.
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Reading was my first great love, and nothing has changed with that over all these years. I never go out without a book/Kindle, love reading everywhere. Hats off to all you writers who keep me supplied with stories! Hugs, Valerie
ReplyDeleteAha! So you were born with a book in your hand too:)
DeleteWow. Have never been asked a question like that, and probably would've been just as shocked as you if I had. The thought of an author never reading is beyond mind-boggling!
ReplyDeleteThat's for sure, Heather.
DeleteI have a friend who considers himself an exceptional writer who doesn't read. Except for the sporting section of newspapers.
ReplyDeleteHe defends his stance by saying that if he did he would be influenced and would 'jump on the trendy bandwaggon'. He thinks his writing is exceptional. I don't.
Wow. That one's a head-scratcher, EC.
ReplyDeleteYeah, that is kinda a dumb question, but then there are a few who think they are cocky and grand and don't read.
ReplyDeleteApparently there are, Pat. It's a stunner for me.
DeleteEvery writer that I've ever had the honor of meeting enjoys sharing tidbits about the things they read, and other writers who inspired them to write. I just can't imagine life without writers or books. That's how I learn, how I escape and how I relax. Great post Super Sandra! Hugs...RO
ReplyDeleteWell said, Ro. I think we all read to learn, escape and relax.
DeleteReading and writing go together like breathing and living...you simply can't have one without the other!
ReplyDeleteI love books...I devour them!!!
Hugs 📚💕
Another kindred soul born with book in hand:)
DeleteI've never been asked that. Maybe somewhere there are writers who don't read.
ReplyDeleteIn a galaxy far, far, away:)
DeleteNever without a book
ReplyDeleteA man after my heart:)
DeleteAlways got my nose in a book :)
ReplyDeleteThere ya go.
DeleteI have been asked this more than once and I still blink in total disbelief. I wouldn’t know what to do if I couldn’t read.
ReplyDeleteRight there with ya, Birgit.
DeleteMust always be reading. Always.
ReplyDeleteI'm nodding in agreement, Tamara.
DeleteI don't know what I'd do if I couldn't read. Every day.
ReplyDeleteIsn't that the truth, Jeanie?
DeleteI have not been asked that question. I read all the time. :)
ReplyDelete~Jess
I'm sure.
DeleteI haven't been asked that question, but I have heard from some writers who write but don't read. It always shocks me. I would never have considered writing without being an avid reader.
ReplyDeleteI don't understand how anyone can write and not read. Sounds like there are some out there that do though. Sigh.
DeleteI've never been asked that question, but I don't consider myself a writer (other than for personal enjoyment). however, I read everything from journal articles to fiction to cereal boxes to blog posts. Nothing escapes my eyes. Glad you posed the question.
ReplyDeleteGood for you, Elizabeth. Reading opens new worlds and continually educates, doesn't it?
Deleteodd question
ReplyDeleteI thought so too, Christine.
DeleteI granted was never a "bookworm" unless you count online non-fiction, but my reading has gone downhill since I started Neko Random. I tried reviews of books at the time, but they weren't really worth the time and effort in terms of what they were doing for me there versus movies/tvshows/video games.
ReplyDeleteAnother issue is the massive wave of books out there, with countless and countless choices, many of them being rather meh, it's hard to know what to read.
But I have written a story, tried to get it done the "official" way but was knocked down easily by the cruel word of agents who could less about you so much they take months to just to say "nah". Which makes me mad considering I believed in my story a lot, and that there were many authors who did get what we all wanted and their works are horrid pieces of garbage.
While I don't mention on my side, my story is out there. Daisy and three good friends have read it, and that does make me happy. Any additional success (minor or major) is just a plus.
I think one fault of authors specifically the success ones, often in their later careers write because someone was asking them to write and their works often dwindles to "...okay". So much difference in that story you had in your head and it becomes this baby that you want to get out there for others to enjoy.
I didn't realize you'd written a story, Adam. Kudos!
DeleteThe reading market is saturated that's for sure and it is hard to decide what to read. I'll sometimes try a freebie by an author I'm unfamiliar with. If I like it, I'll buy the other books the author has written, unless I feel its seriously overpriced. It always stuns me when some E books, especially by our 'star-power' authors, cost more than a paper copy.
Rejections from agents and publishers can be harsh. It always stings. Did you self-publish? If so please give us details.
I did do it through the self way with a pen name. I know you've heard of it. Think about it and I'm sure you'll realize what's been hiding under your nose this whole time.
DeleteI've never been asked that question, but I've met people who want to be writers but claim they don't read. I don't think that is possible.
ReplyDeleteRight there with ya, Susan.
DeleteHi Sandra - one has to read to be a good writer ... and sadly I don't read much, and really should put my head into a few more books - I'm trying to get that way now I'm out in Canada - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteI think you're an excellent writer, Hilary.
ReplyDeleteI think that's a very odd question?? That's like asking, do I enjoy looking at art? LOL! Big Hugs Sandra!
ReplyDeleteWhat a weird question. Like you, I was born reading a book. Close, anyway. I read every night before sleep. Often, too late into the night. LOL As far as celebrating, not much. I need to be kinder to myself.
ReplyDelete