Capital "W"

I've been writing a lot more lately - beyond the journal, I mean - although I'm still loyal to that routine. There's a piece that may (or may not) turn into a coming of age fiction novel (or short story); a series of prompted vignettes (or Flash Fiction work) from a Facebook writers' group I'm a part of; the (slow) start of a children's book based on true childhood experience; an outline for a story I want to tell at an open mic event next week in the city (oh wait, I haven't started that one.)

So you can see, with all of my parenthetical and heavily caveated assurances, I am indeed on my way to becoming the next Stephen King. (Although I'd call myself something more edgy as a woman - like "Stevie".) Bold, prolific. A real Writer.

Wait, what is a "real Writer" anyway? Why do I designate it a proper noun? Isn't being a Writer truly just...someone who writes? Let's check it out:

Dictionary.com

1. a person engaged in writing books, articles, stories, etc., especially as an occupation or profession; an author or journalist.

2. a clerk, scribe, or the like.

3. a person who commits his or her thoughts, ideas, etc., to writing:

an expert letter writer.

4. a person who writes or is able to write: a writer in script.

Huh. Okay, that sure doesn't prove my point. How about this one:

Merriam-Webster

1. the act or process of one who writes: such as:

a. the act or art of forming visible letters or characters; specifically;

b. the act or practice of literary or musical composition

2. something written: such as:

a. letters or characters that serve as visible signs of ideas, words, or symbols; b. a letter, note, or notice used to communicate or record; c. a written composition; d. inscription

3. a style or form of composition

4. the occupation of a writer; especially the profession of authorship

Yeah, that's more like it. The whole writing-as-a-job thing falls last on this list, which is more fitting. That is until I've published a ton of work for large book-signing audiences throughout the state, which is pretty sure to happen soon. Like any day now. Seriously.

Anne Lamott says, in her awesome book Bird by Bird, "I don't think you have time to waste not writing because you are afraid you won't be good at it." Yes! Hallelujah, sister. And to this, I would add not to be afraid "...because you won't be published/make money/gain tons of recognition/garner a fan base."

So I am a Writer damnnit.

Ha! There, I've declared it to you, the very impressive readership I write these posts to - which I believe includes my parents, some very close and loyal family friends, college besties and a chosen few from my local friend crew.

So, consider yourselves in the know. Ahead of the game. Part of a big reveal.

And while all you're all basking in the glow of being let into my little secret, I'll be over here...trying to write.