BG004: The Writers Pyramid

Welcome to the enchanting world of the writer's pyramid—a delightful journey through the stages of writing achievement! Picture a magnificent pyramid, divided into six vibrant sections, each representing a unique level of accomplishment for aspiring writers.

1. The Foundation:

At the base, where the majority of dreamers reside, we find those who whisper, "I think I have a book inside me." This is the realm of hopes and scribbles, where unfinished stories and half-baked ideas linger, waiting for the spark to ignite their potential.

2. The Learners:

As we ascend, we encounter those eager to grow. These passionate souls dive into writing books, attend lively conferences, and enroll in classes—all while putting pen to paper. They're on a quest to hone their craft, and each word they write brings them closer to their dreams.

3. The Achievers:

Climbing higher, we reach the exhilarating level where writers complete their first full-length novels. What a thrilling milestone! This is where the heart of a true writer beats, and the excitement of creation fuels their journey.

4. The Novelist's Realm:

Next, we find the determined ones who embrace the challenge of writing another novel. They understand that rejection is part of the process, and they persist because they are novelists at heart, not merely individuals who have penned a single story.

5. The Published Authors:

Further up, we celebrate those who have seen their works published. This is a joyous achievement, a testament to their hard work and dedication!

6. The Multi-Published:

At the pinnacle, we find the accomplished writers who have been published multiple times. Their stories resonate with readers, and their voices are heard far and wide.

And at the very top of this pyramid is a magical wheel of fortune, where breakout hits like "The Da Vinci Code" and "Harry Potter" emerge. This wheel spins unpredictably, reminding us that while we can strive for excellence, the ultimate success often lies beyond our control—even for the biggest publishers.

Writers are learning their craft through books, critique groups, seminars, and courses. This means there is a lot of competent fiction out there.

But that’s not good enough anymore. What makes best sellers and writing careers is unforgettable fiction. This Veranda guidance course is designed to take you from the merely competent, and even the pretty good, to the unforgettable.

So, dear writers, your mission is clear: Keep climbing this pyramid! Each level presents its own set of challenges, and as you ascend, you’ll notice a gradual thinning of fellow dreamers. Many may drop out along the way, but with perseverance and passion, you can reach for that novel on the wheel. Remember, once you do, the journey takes on a new life of its own. Happy writing!

Exercise

Reread one of your all-time favorite novels. As you do, ask yourself what it is about the characters, setting, scenes, and overall plot that grabs you. Look especially at the first 50 pages. How did the author draw you in? What sets this book apart from run-of-the-mill fiction?