What compelled you to become a writer?

by Adrian Sroka
8th September 2015

Why put yourself through the time-consuming arduous task of writing a novel, with little chance of financial reward?

I was driven by an Idea I had as a child, which inspired me to attempt to write a historical, action-adventure novel in the chivalric genre. It has been a long, exhausting struggle, and is ongoing, but I'm thoroughly enjoying the experience. I hope that by the summer of 2016, my novel will be ready to submit to Agents.

Replies

Paul, I don't beat myself up over typos, a wrong comma, full stop, or apostrophe.

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Adrian
Sroka
19900 points
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Fiction
Historical
Middle Grade (Children's)
Young Adult (YA)
Adventure
Adrian Sroka
13/09/2015

When I was about seven I needed to write, I sat at the typewriter and began my story. I had no idea where it was going to go but let the words fall over the keys. (I think I have mentioned this in my profile but hey ho) My eldest brother, who was home on leave from the army at the time, was reading over my shoulder and pointed out that a car rally was not in fact a race. I didn't realize it was more trial and pace but I was seven. After his comments, instead of asking for his help I decided I mustn't be able to write and stopped there and then. However, it wouldn't go away and after thirty years (about) I had no option but to try, I am, as is obvious from being here... still trying. I love it, can't help it. Maybe there should be a help line for addicted writers? No? Oh well I will just let the habit keep its hold over me and enjoy the highs and live with the lows. Oh yes and continue to have my grammar and punctuation corrected by my long suffering wife. Pity I can't get her to check these posts before I press the button!

Regards Paul G

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Paul
Garside
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Paul Garside
13/09/2015

Jonathan, if you get stuck, PM me.

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Adrian
Sroka
19900 points
Ready to publish
Fiction
Historical
Middle Grade (Children's)
Young Adult (YA)
Adventure
Adrian Sroka
09/09/2015