How do you write what people actually want to read?
I’ve been writing books, blogs, articles and grants for over 30 years now. What I learned is that a compelling story that is relatable are the ones that are read the most and often bring about interactions between this writer and her readers.
My first published article was titled; A Parent Dies and it was published by a medial journal. That gave me the confidence to keep writing and to keep sharing. My child’s dad died when she was 2 and I wrote about it. That article connected me to many others.
Later I began writing about estrangement and thousands of readers not only read my writings, but many commented and shared their stories with me. Again confidence building and fueled my desires to write more and to connect more with others and our shared experiences.
The first grant that I wrote by myself was for $100,000 and when it was granted I was over the moon happy. It was both a compelling story for kids in need and the financial goals on what it would take to achieve those goals.
I have learned that when I write from the heart and share life experiences that those are the articles and blogs that receive the highest readership.
My belief is that writers are readers and that we fall into one of two categories we are either 1) really good story tellers or 2) we have a story to tell. I definitely have fallen into the second category.
Being widowed young and experiencing estrangement has given me much to write about.
When I was 40 my poetry book Bare Breasted Heart came out. More than 20 years later I read it and still feel both pride and accomplishment in it. Same can be said for my Halfway Home The First 50 Years. These books have stood the test of time with subject matter that is still so timely in the world we live in today and our shared human condition.
It’s been said, most writers are not very good until they age at bit, maybe around 40, because you need to have a certain amount of life experiences. I completely agree!
The more life we live, the more life we have to write about.
Earlier today I visited one of my favorite bookstores where I’ve spent hours. I love to read and I love books!
Cheers to all the writers and readers out there. I feel such a kinship toward all of you!
Bernadette on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/bernadetteamoyer and Instagram @bernadetteamoyer and google Bernadette Sahm or Bernadette Moyer to view my many online contributions.
#writers #readers #books #blogs #articles #sharing #life #experiences #death #estrangement #gratitude #living #learning #connecting #written-words
