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Why Am I Hesitant to Own the Title Writer?
How my high school inspired me to own my craft.
A few months ago, my old high school contacted me. They were assembling a career panel of alumni to inspire and encourage the senior girls about to begin their own career paths in college. They asked if I would like to come and speak.
I hesitated. They wanted me? What expertise did I hold?
I looked down at the pajamas I was still wearing while I worked on the book I fear no one will publish. I knew I worked; I spent hours a day writing for Medium, working on my novel, and promoting my brand on various social media sites. But with all of it primarily unpaid, I struggle with whether that qualifies me with the title ‘writer’ to the outside world.
I don’t have trouble telling family and friends I’m a writer. I share my struggles and successes, and they understand the reality of trying to get published — it can take years, as I’m pursuing the traditional route. They support my efforts because they know and love me.
But can it be the same with strangers? Whenever I tell someone new I’m a novelist, their first question is, “Where can I find your book?” It humbles me to admit I don’t have one to purchase. There’s no tangible thing to point to and say, “There it…
