5 Last-Minute Gifts for Writers

Here is a list of 5 free things you can get the writers in your life. No matter the occasion, these are things writers always need.

1. Time

Writers need time to write. Give writers time to write without a guilt trip and without making them feel like they’re missing out on something (even if they are).

Also, give the writer you care about some of your own time during which you listen as they describe their latest plot bunny, character arc, whatever.

2. Understanding

Okay, so maybe you don’t actually get why they insist on working for hours on a book or screenplay that seems to be making them monumentally miserable, but you can at least let them know that you understand that it is something they want to do. Maybe they even feel that it’s something they have to do. We’ve all felt this way about something, haven’t we?

Writers often feel misunderstood, so this is a great gift, trust me.

You Wrote a Book. Now What?

3. Enthusiasm

This might be the hardest one on the list to pull off. Enthusiasm? They’ve talked to me about the same scene for days! How about I just get them another notebook instead? Maybe with a nice pen this time?

I’m not asking you to show interest in their story because what they’re working on might not be your cup of tea, and that is something you should be honest about. (Do not offer advice on their sci-fi novel if you don’t read science fiction.)

Instead, I’m asking for enthusiasm for the overall writing process, such as when they send off their 300th query letter.

Yes, they are oscillating between talking your ear off and slinking off to their writing spot without you. It’s hard on you, which is why this is a big gift and better than anything you can buy them.