Busting Writing Myths

One of my biggest dreams as a kid was to become a famous Hollywood screenwriter. I spent hours creating games and roleplaying story ideas with my younger sister. I even transformed my bedroom into a live stage and performed plays for my family. Once I graduated high school, it was apparent what career I desired. Everyone, including my friends, family, and teachers, supported my decision.

Go on, Zorrawa, you've got this! You're going to be a star in no time! I can already see you walking the red carpet! Once I heard that, I proudly submitted my work online for thousands to see. Initially, I thought showing my scripts to strangers was the best thing I'd ever done, and now I was bound for greatness. Unfortunately, I wasn't ready for the responses.

Everyone hated my scripts. They were aggressively downvoted on Reddit, and several people told me I was wasting my time because I didn't have talent. Of course, some good people gave me constructive criticism and told me to keep trying despite the naysayers, but the hurtful feedback stuck with me. I couldn't help but compare myself to other writers who were much more talented than me. Eventually, I became a perfectionist and stopped writing scripts altogether. Now and then, I'd attempt a short story but never finish. I no longer saw the purpose.

Then, one day, a friend reached out to me and asked, why don't you write anymore? I lied and told them I was busy, but eventually, I told them the truth: I was a terrible writer, so there's no point in me trying. My friend said that's not true. I replied, so you think my scripts are Oscar-worthy? No, she chuckled, but that doesn't mean you're an awful writer. I was curious and asked her to go on.

The advice she gave me not only changed my perspective but also gave me the courage to write again. Hopefully, This small list can help you, too.

Myth 1: Legendary Writers Are Born, Not Made

Truth: Writing a solid script takes time.

Talent vs. hard work. Which one wins? Imagine there are two people who want to become singers. One is hard-working but mediocre; the other was born with undeniable talent. Of course, having talent gives you an advantage over people, but it can only go so far. Even the most gifted creators need to practice and build skill sets. Without putting in the hours of hard work and dedication, even the most gifted can hit a ceiling that they can't break through. On the other hand, hard work and commitment can level the playing field for those less fortunate. In contrast, it may seem like an uphill battle initially, but the effort over time can lead to notable improvements and success.

Myth 2: Good Writers Don't Need Criticism

Truth: Everyone, even the best of the best, needs some form of criticism.

There is a common misconception surrounding screenwriting, which originates from these two sources. Successful writers with an inflated ego, leading them to believe they have already achieved perfection, and people who assume that once you have mastered writing, there's no need for improvement. HA! If only it were that easy. Writing is like a sport. Like athletes, good writing requires practice and working your muse muscles. In addition, it's easy to overlook areas in your work that need improvement, so writers require constructive criticism, especially during their early draft stages.

Myth 3: Bad Writers Steal Ideas From Others

Truth: Good writers are excellent at execution.

Here's the harsh truth about originality. Almost everything's been done already. When people complain about a script being cliche or painted by numbers, it means the screenplay isn't able to differentiate itself from other stories. In addition, studios want something similar but different so they can target the right audience. I know that sounds paradoxical. How can something be different if it has similar traits to other works? Simple! It all lies in an idea's execution. You can take any concept or idea for a TV show or movie, change an element or two, and create a masterpiece; of course, this depends on a writer's experience and skill level, but with the right tools and mindset, even the most cliche, stereotypical stories can transform into original masterpieces.

Myth 4: A Good Writer Only Writes About What They Know

Truth: This myth is a double-edged sword.

If you write what you know, your writing will be more authentic, but if you write about things you need to learn more about and refuse to research the topic beforehand, your story will ring untrue. In short, writers should write about whatever they want. They'll be fine if they study the subject and explore the core emotions that arise from their idea.

Over the years, misconceptions about professional writers have plagued people's minds and made them insecure about their writing. But the truth is there's no such thing as a bad writer, just people who are perfectionists or are too stubborn to accept criticism.

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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