what makes a writer feel good?
V A L I D A T I O N
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i posted a story (fanfic) of mine a few years ago and since, had lost motivation to keep writing it. but honestly- THE COMMENTS make me feel better. they make me feel like i can punch 10 bodybuilders in the face and leave deep, cranial damage. these bodybuilders being my writer's block
and then there's nothing better than hearing "your writing/replies are so good" from a new person. while yes, we love hearing praise from those close to us, those who know our writing.... however, it's like hearing praise from your parent or guardian, or someone who tends to praise you a lot because of how close you are. sometimes you worry that they're just praising you to feel better. and while i do appreciate praise, sometimes hearing it from a random stranger just makes me feel like i can do anything, ykno?
that is why SO many authors on ao3, ff.net, tumblr, aff, twitter, wattpad, ETC always ask you to leave a comment. and you should! it's basically a way to not only show how much you LOVE the work but also to give the author motivation, validation, and inspiration to keep writing. you might think "i don't know what to say" but honestly, just a little "this story is so great! i love reading it and i feel giddy every time i read it/it updates!"
IDK im just ... i love getting cute comments. they are the best. and as someone who is constantly doubting my writing and doubting if i even wanna pursue it more than other hobbies i have... getting those comments mean the WORLD to me. and i'm sure they do to a lot of you as well.
i think less than inspiration was what i needed rather... validation. i know it sounds bad and "you should write for you!" and all but- sometimes you just need someone to tell you that what you're doing matters and that they love seeing it. i'm sure a lot of artists, heck, even people outside of art feel this way. so if you like to read fanfics COMMENT ON THEM, as much as your cute brain can get out. even if its rambly and seems a little long, most authors will read ALL OF IT and with a huge grin on their face too.
that's all. i think my writer's block is cured (?)
i also recommend the book: less by andrew sean greer. it's a novel about a writer who struggles with his love life and his career. basically one of his old boyfriend's invites him to a wedding so he accepts all these invitations to writing festivals or teaching classes across the world. if you love rambly character writing, this book is for you! i think it's a wonderful novel about love, wanting to feel young again. i haven't finished it yet but i'm enjoying it quite a lot!
maybe every blog i make i should make a book recommendation lol so i can force myself to read more okno that sounds like a bad idea
I MUST GO THIS IS TOO LONG
byeee ♡
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