Winter sunset across from my houseNo matter how old you are, you can become a writer, if that’s what you really want.
One of my students wrote his first poem at the age of 87 and has had his work published numerous times since. Two of my students, who are probably in their eighties, are completing gripping mystery novels. A third, also in her seventies, writes and publishes intriguing personal essays in her local newspaper on a regular basis. Another is a genealogy expert. In addition to the joy she gets from sharing her work with family members, she’s had her work published and won awards.
Some of my students have full-time jobs. Others have children and/or parents to care for. Yet they have always wanted to write, and that’s exactly what they’re doing now!
One of my newest students—a man in his seventies—read a life story he’s working on to our class. He’s never written before. The class was absolutely silent. His storytelling talent is phenomenal. And what drives that talent is his passion to tell his story.
I want others to tell theirs!
I teach creative writing to teens at my local library. The teens, too young to be timid about expressing themselves, blow me away with the range of their ideas, their ability to describe the world around them and the worlds that they create. At a memoir class I took a few years ago, two young women, still in their teens, were standout writers—among a class full of extremely good writers.
So, don’t let your age, whatever it is, get in the way of pursuing your writing dreams. If you’re longing to write and not sure how to begin or continue, get contact me. I’m experienced and easy to work with. If you’re not sure, take a look at the Testimonials tab on this website, then get in touch.
Certainly food for thought and a lot of memories for me. I wrote my first full-length book (240 typewritten pages) at 12, rewrote it twice, my 2nd book at 13 and my third at 15. Joined an adult read and critique group. They were certain I’d be a bestselling author and so was I. Stopped writing for career, marriage, to support kids. Started again at 52. Wrote a book I was certain would be a bestseller, and another three since then. Have yet to get one published, but I’m pretty certain this time I’ll make it. 67 and still at it. You’re absolutely right. Never too young. Never too old.
Penelope:
I’m so glad you left a comment. I just took a quick look at your website, and can’t wait to read more. I’m attaching the link to an article of mine that Skirt! published. It’s about my “losing everything,” in a way, when I left my last job. Hope you like it.
http://microskirts.skirt.com/essays/part-time-parting-time
– Lynette
Hello Lynette, Thank you for the invitation 😉 I’ve always wanted to write a book, but never thought I’d be able to develop my ideas into many pages. I’m not a writer by profession, yet I recently hired a writing coach to help with my newsletter marketing.
Now, I’ve found my voice, my message, and really enjoying writing. I’m not sure I am a creative writer, but have found writing stories easier than I thought. I will never by a Stephanie Meyer with plots, but am not sure that’s ever been my goal.
I think I also long for the solitude and stillness of writing. It’s a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life – although my kids just want me to get off the computer!
Here’s to all of your writing projects, no matter where you are in the journey!
I agree with you entirely, Marci: writing’s a break from the incredible bustle of the rest of life! I couldn’t survive without those silent interludes.
Glad you’re writing—what YOU want to write.