Writers, we get no respect.
Whether its fiction or non-fiction, laying down prose for a living is one of the toughest rackets out there. If you’re not in the top tier of authors getting rich off your words, making enough money writing can be a struggle week-to-week. And then there are the battles against crippling writer’s block and self-doubt to contend with. It’s all in a day’s work.
And yet, writers seem to attract questions and comments that range from belittling to downright offensive. This week, authors, journalists, poets and amateur writers alike have been airing some of those common snippets of conversation on Twitter via the hashtag #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter. Marvel at some world-class disparaging remarks like, “Oh, you write for kids? So when are you going to write a real book?” and, “Are you still doing that little writing thing?”
Here are 10 more fine examples that you should avoid saying to a writer at all costs.
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter “Can I be in your next book?” Sure. In fact YOU are my next book. I’m going to use your skin for the pages.
— Mel Salisbury (@AHintofMystery) July 28, 2015
When I retire I’m going to write a book, too. #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter — John Fox (@bookfox) July 28, 2015
You’re a writer? What a coincidence–I have a blog, too! #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter — Jan Mieszkowski (@janmpdx) July 28, 2015
“Is this character you?” #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter Yes, they’re all me. The guy, the girl, the dragon, the lizard – all me. — Samantha Mae Coyiuto (@maecoyiuto) July 29, 2015
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter So? Are you still writing or are you working now?
— Karen Rock (@KarenRock5) July 28, 2015
“I would totally write a novel if I had as much free time as you do. I have so many ideas.” #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter — Patrick Weekes (@PatrickWeekes) July 28, 2015
#TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter “That sounds like so much fun! Wish I could just sit around and write all day.” — Kat Kinsman (@kittenwithawhip) July 28, 2015
When some men find out I write erotic fiction… “Bet I could give you some inspiration.” ? #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter — Jodi Ellen Malpas (@JodiEllenMalpas) July 29, 2015
Person looking at your bookshelves: “And you actually read all of these?” #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriter
— Tom Cox (@cox_tom) July 28, 2015
“Finish the next book, you’re not getting any younger.” #TenThingsNotToSayToAWriterpic.twitter.com/XTWxJwizkh
— Jon Snow (@LordSnow) July 28, 2015
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Angry writer image via Shutterstock
