Writer Mama Riffs on Raising A Writing Career Alongside Your Kids

Editors want what the judges on American Idol want. And writers can assess their strengths and weaknesses through the lens of the four finalists on American Idol.

Try it. It’s fun.

Melinda: The Technician
As an editor I know how refreshing it is to work with a writer who is technically excellent. What I mean is a writer who turns in appropriate, well-written, polished writing every single time. And impeccable technicians are generally conscientious. They turn in work on time or early. They are impeccable and that makes them a pleasure to work with. Sort of like Melinda on American Idol. Let’s face it, she’s spot-on most of the time. If you are a Melinda-writer, you can plan on steady success in your writing career by virtue of your technical excellence.

Blake: Uniqueness in Action
As an editor I also know that I love to receive a submission that is fresh, with a unique take or spin, especially if it’s not self-conscious, but rather playful or just left-of-center. I am usually willing to put in extra time with a Blake, in order to nurture a fresh voice. But a Blake can’t be arrogant or that just spoils all the fun. Not all editors will go the extra mile for a humble Blake, but I will every time. A Blake-writer is the underdog. The one you can’t help rooting for. The one who reminds you not to forget your own uniqueness.

Lakisha: She Moves Us
As an editor and a reader I naturally gravitate towards writing that moves me. Writing that has some heat, a strong emotional through-line, or that inspires me. If it gives me chills when I read it, as Lakisha often does when she sings, well, heck, I’ll follow that writer just about anywhere. The ability to move people can’t be co-opted. It’s a gift. It’s a rare writer who can stay steady and passionate at the same time. As an editor, I’m inclined to forgive a mistake or two for a writer, who can give me chills the way Lakisha can.
Jordin: Pure Promise
Though many writers are under the impression that only the Melindas get the contracts, I am sure I am not the only editor who is inclined to encourage a writer with potential, even when current work is less than perfect. I’m not just talking about talent. I am a firm believer that talent is NOT what launches or sustains writing careers. Let’s just call it a sparkly quality. Something subtle—an energy or glow—that suggests good things to come. Conscientiousness can also entice an editor to take a chance on a Jordin-writer.

I think all writers probably share the qualities of the four American Idol candidates to a certain degree

Which Idol are you most like?

Writing is a fairly competitive business where so much of success depends on determination and perseverance. How might you draw forth some of the powers of the other Idols?

Know your strengths. Address your weaknesses. And leverage the skills you have.

In Writer Mama, I call this playing the strongest cards in your deck.

That’s what the candidates on American Idol do and that’s what writers do too.