A Writer Can Be Too Smart for Their Own Good
Learning to Write is like learning to play chess. It does not take long to learn the mechanics. It can take a lifetime to become a master.
Both endeavors require an ongoing learning process. That process involves slowly establishing neural pathways through repetition.
With each writing project, a writer also learns to see patterns, create strategies, and understand how to influence the other player. With writing, the other player is the reader.
A writer can gently nudge a reader into looking at the world differently.
We do that carefully and respectfully. Writing requires some smarts. But a writer must never be a smart Alec.
Many new writers feel a false sense of superiority. “I have an idea because I am learned and clever. The average reader does not share my point of view because they are not as educated.”
Readers can spot a condescending writer and will simply stop reading.
Writing down to a reader is USUALLY not a matter of arrogance or immaturity. Many new writers think it is a requirement to be clever. They feel that being clever sets them apart and makes their writing special.
A reader loves being exposed to new ideas. That should be the goal of all artists. Art should broaden the mind. But writing should also be fun.
Never get so caught up in helping your reader evolve that you forget to write an interesting story.
Do not be so married to helping the reader grow you forget your art form. A reader made a social contract with you. The deal is they buy your book, and you provide a service. You give them something enjoyable. If enlightenment happens along the way, that is great. If social change comes about, that is amazing. But it is not about writing the next Scarlet Letter, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, or All’s Quiet on the Western Front. It is about fulfilling that social contract.
I pray each writer makes a difference. If you write well and master your craft, you might do just that.
But never:
Write down to the reader
Assume the Reader is not intelligent
Talk disparagingly about contemporary society. Show the results and let the reader decide.
Do not mock commonly held values
And never think your views are morally superior.
Come down to Earth. That is where the readers are.
Eric Myers
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