Writers, Like Most People, Want Validation

As authors, we want the recognition and acceptance that comes from the approval of readers and fellow writers. We crave validation of our fiction from family, friends and readers of our creative works. However, this very natural need to get recognition can actually work against our success in the fiction market.

Seeking constant approval for our creativity will make us seem desperate. That’s a sure way to drive potential readers away. Instead of begging for an audience, we need to invest our time in communications such as social media outlets and groups made up of other authors. That activity will teach us what works by the examples of authors.

Actress Sally Field gave the epitome of speeches asking for validation when she took her second Oscar for leading actress of the year. The Academy members recognized her efforts in the 1984 movie Places of the Heart. Her heart-felt words of acceptance have been ridiculed many times and usually misquoted.

Standing in front of the membership of movie actors, she gave her short speech: “I haven’t had an orthodox career, and I’ve wanted more than anything to have your respect. The first time I didn’t feel it, but this time I feel it, and I can’t deny the fact that you like me, right now, you like me!”

Her first Oscar was for best leading actress in the 1979 movie Norma Rae. Starting in the mid-1960s, Sally Field starred in several television sitcoms and successful films. Her acting ability in both dramatic and comedic roles is praised by her peers.

As writers, a self-serving speech such as the one delivered by Sally Field could be devastating to our search for new readers. Instead of reaching for a pat on the back, we need to keep our eyes on the prize. That means we need to grow as writers and use the marketing sources available to us. Those sources include book signings, speeches to local book clubs, social media, web pages and blogs.

Your writing will improve if you stop worrying what people think of you. Ten people can read your work and come up with ten different opinions, some very insulting. We can’t ignore criticisms. Anyone who puts a piece of art or creative item in front of the public has to accept that everyone is a critic. It’s our part to accept criticisms graciously, even when the words hurt. Debating or arguing with a critic never ends well.

Trust in yourself and in your craft. Sally Field showed her main motivation was to be appreciated. I think she succeeded because she’s a public figure. We can be successful by writing the best fiction we can. There’s nothing we can control other than writing the best stories possible.

Thank you for reading this blog. Check here in about a week for a new subject. See my web page at www.joevlatino.com.