Ascending to Great Writing Without a Formal Degree

Imagine, for a moment, that you possess a deep-seated desire to become a great writer but have little to no academic background in the field. How can you achieve greatness in a craft that often demands rigorous education and certification? The answer lies within you and the pages of your own imagination. In this article, we will explore the methods and strategies for rising to the top as a writer, even if you did not benefit from a traditional degree.

The Importance of Practice and Persistence

As you begin your journey, it's crucial to understand that the only true way to become a half-good writer is through dedicated practice. What you learned in college was the art of formulating a thesis, constructing an argument, and citing sources, but these were just tools in your toolbox. They are not the full story of writing. The storytelling craft, in all its complexity and nuance, cannot be taught in a classroom setting. Rather, it is through the art of writing itself that you develop your voice and narrative skill.

Mastering the Craft

To truly excel, you must write tons of stories, even if many of them turn out crap. Acknowledge that they are not good and discard them. The process is brutal and often discouraging, but it is the only way forward. You need to study the stories you like and understand how they are constructed to find the techniques that work for you. Observing and adopting the styles and techniques of skilled writers can help you refine your own voice and narrative approach. Everyone, from veterans to novices, follows this path.

Building a Strong Writing Foundation

Here are some specific actions you can take to improve your writing:

Be Specific: Naming plants, trees, birds, and cars by their specific names, not generic terms. For example, instead of saying 'car', say 'Ford', and instead of 'bird', say 'Cardinal'. This specificity adds depth and clarity to your descriptions. Understand Emotions: Take the time to explore your emotions and how they affect your body. Create a list of feelings and use them to make your characters react to stimuli. Understanding the physical sensations of emotions can help your characters feel more authentic. Observe Others: Study how people express themselves through their actions. Observe how they walk, talk, and react. For example, imagine a woman who sticks out her tongue while thinking. Incorporate such unique details to make your characters come to life. Engage in Real Actions: If your character cooks, fights, dances, digs ditches, etc., try doing these actions yourself and describe them well. This firsthand experience will enhance your ability to write them vividly and authentically.

Greek and Contemporary Greats

Many great writers before and contemporary to this day have achieved heights of literary success without the benefit of a formal education. This includes titans such as Shakespeare, Dickens, Orwell, and countless great women writers from earlier eras. Their stories serve as proof that talent and dedication can lead to greatness, regardless of one's educational background.

Reading and Writing Daily

The key to mastering the art of writing is reading and writing daily. Reading exposes you to different voices, styles, and techniques. It also provides inspiration and shows you the limitless possibilities in writing. Writing, on the other hand, allows you to develop your own voice and narrative skills. Make it a habit to write something every day. Even if it's just a short note or a fragment, it keeps the writing muscles in your brain strong and ready to tackle any challenge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a great writer without a formal education is a challenging but doable path. It involves a combination of dedicated practice, persistence, and a deep understanding of the craft. By writing a lot and studying the works of skilled writers, you can develop your unique voice and narrative style. So, go ahead and unleash your creativity. Great writing lies ahead for those who truly dedicate themselves to the craft.