When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece. ~John Ruskin

Love of the story and of the craft itself, together with the learned skill of writing can be a powerful commodity. One without the other can lead to poor results, which can then lead to misery, depression and, worse of all, hatred for what we are doing.

A writer must love what they are doing, or why write in the first place? However, a writer must be open to the fact that there’s always something more to learn. Fashions change, procedures change, and we must be vigilant so that we know when these changes take place.

Visualise yourself holding a copy of your published book. Isn’t the sweat and tears worth that moment becoming a reality? To me, it is.

This quote was taken from my desk calendar at work. I think it’s fitting that it appeared today. It comes as a reminder for what is ahead of me, because tonight I plan to get my paperwork ready for the big edit of Cat’s Eyes. On Saturday, I will start the actual editing process. My goal is one chapter a week, but secretly I’m hoping to do two chapters in that time frame.

Do you have the love and skill to see it through to the end?

Filed under: Quotes & Inspiration, Writing Habits, Writing for Children, Writing: