ISWG: Art v. Craft

At the first writing conference I attended, one of the editors said something that has stuck with me: “Master the craft, and the art will come.” (This is a loose paraphrase.)

And I tend to agree. I have been working very hard on that craft. Writing. Having my work critiqued. Reading craft books. Attending conferences.

But recently I got one of my short stories published in a local anthology as a winner of a local contest. This contest is only open to residents of my county, and the whole purpose is to encourage writers, who often work in isolation.

Of course, it’s always a boost to see your work in print and to think the hard work of learning the craft is paying off.

But I learned the most from reading other people’s stories and poems.

What struck me is these stories were written out of people’s experiences with a lot of skill, but they were not written to sell many copies or appeal to a wide audience.

Some of the stories talk about sad experiences, weird happenings, or just reflect ordinary life. Half the stories and poems are written by children and teens.

As Picasso said, “Every child is an artist, the problem is to remain an artist once we grow up.”

What I see at most writing events and conferences is a huge emphasis on getting an editor's or agent's attention. (Or in self-publishing, how to make a lot of sales.) But when we focus too much on pleasing other people, we forget to see writing as an art,  an expression, as part of who we are.

My county’s art association also sponsors a writing festival, which is not a conference in the usual sense. Yes, there are workshops by writers on improving the craft, but there are also readings by local artists, and no agents or editors are in attendance. Although there is a place for the regular type of conference, going to this agent-less festival feels like going on a retreat. I get to focus on why I’m writing in the first place, without worrying if “I’m good enough.”

I just get encouraged to “make great art.”




How do you get rejuvenated as a writer? How do you balance the tension of art v. craft?

Sorry I didn't answer the question this month! I don't have any big secrets to reveal. :)

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