Topic: Purpose for Writing

10-second review: If you’re reading something and you think, “I can do better than that,” do it. Take the challenge.

Title: “ ‘I Can Do Better Than That’ Became Her Mantra.” Barbara Nefer. The Writer (November 2008), 14. The Writer is a magazine by writers for writers.

Summary: The author took up her challenge on a topic she knew a great deal about, found the right publication [ topic was horses], Horse Illustrated, and gained her first writing contract. She wasn’t cocky. She knew her field and she was confident in her knowledge.

Comment: I’ve read that some authors wrote a book because the book they wanted to read did not exist. This motive, “I can do better than that,” is similar. They both motivated writers to write. RayS.