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Rising to My Level of Incompetence
blog by RICK WALTON listed in categories: Writer's Life

An editor once asked me if I would like to write tie-in novels for the Wishbone series.

My agent once asked me if I would like to write sports novels.

I turned them both down.

From time to time I’ll read a brilliant novel, and think, “I want to write like that!” I covet my neighbor’s talent.

But then I realize that I have neither the personality nor the skill nor the fire for novel writing.

When I began going to storytelling festivals, I would listen to those brilliant storytellers, how they would make you laugh one minute, cry the next. And I would think, “I want to do that! I can do that!”

And then, reality check. Could I create, remember, deliver like they do? And if I could, would I enjoy the life of a professional storyteller? Always on the road?

The answer on all counts, no. At least not without more effort and sacrifice than I want to give.

So, though I am always looking for new outlets, new approaches, new challenges, I also keep in mind what I can do, what I am willing to do, and I am content with that.

I have my own corner of the garden, and I’m content with making it bloom.

Posted in April, 2008