Margaret Atwood's Advice to Writers

As for writing, most people secretly believe they themselves

have a book in them,

which they would write if they could only find the time.

And there’s some truth to this notion.

A lot of people do have a book in them –

that is, they have had an experience that

other people might want to read about.

But this is not the same as “being a writer.”

Or, to put it in a more sinister way:

everyone can dig a hole in a cemetery,

but not everyone is a grave-digger.

The latter takes a good deal more stamina and persistence.

~ Margaret Atwood

For motivation to write despite feelings of self-doubt, insecurity, fear, or despair, read 73 Ways to Fire Up (or Just Fire!) the Muse.

For more writing quotations and writing tips, visit Quips and Tips for Successful Writers.