Makes me think of The Incredibles: "When everyone is special, no one is special."
I like Nick's idea here in theory, because I'm a writer and the thought that I have unlimited potential is a happy one. But it's a little like saying that anyone can be a great dancer if they practice hard enough, or a great painter, or a great singer. Some people just can't do it -- others will find that the right mindset, good training and lots of practice will still only get them to a level of basic competence.
Nick's advice is excellent for writers who are already good writers. For everybody else? I'm not so sure.
My prediction? This essay will not provide us with any more great writers. It will, however, encourage a certain number of mediocre ones to act like jackasses.
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(no subject)
Date: 2008-07-07 04:22 pm (UTC)Makes everything you write timeless, poignant and insightful. Even shopping lists.
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Date: 2008-07-07 04:30 pm (UTC)I like Nick's idea here in theory, because I'm a writer and the thought that I have unlimited potential is a happy one. But it's a little like saying that anyone can be a great dancer if they practice hard enough, or a great painter, or a great singer. Some people just can't do it -- others will find that the right mindset, good training and lots of practice will still only get them to a level of basic competence.
Nick's advice is excellent for writers who are already good writers. For everybody else? I'm not so sure.
(no subject)
Date: 2008-07-07 11:13 pm (UTC)Interesting, though.