We writers often pursue a holy grail of writing. A holy grail is a sought after prize of great significance that brings the writer happiness, accolades, and even can provide special powers. It’s often termed elusive—just beyond reach but dangling, teasing, urging the writer to keep moving forward.
The holy grail is different for each writer, and that vague definition makes it difficult for the writer to grasp. Sometimes we aren’t sure what that individual achievement is or how to grab it.
The quest begins by describing what the holy grail of writing means to us.
- Publication of our book by one of the big five publishers
- NYT Bestseller status
- Presented a distinguished award
- Win an incredible international contest
- Movie contract with a large studio
- Interviews on all the big networks
Do we search for methods and study tips guaranteed to ensure a bestseller? Are we involved in social media? Participate in a writer’s group? Attend workshops and conferences? All of these are solid practices. Journeying through our career encourages raising the bar on our craft and growing as a writer who is respected and knowledgable.
But what if we’re doing all the things the experts claim will bring our desires on a golden platter, and nothing’s happening except discouragement? What are a few reasons our quest hasn’t been realized?
- Expectations too high
- Novel or book project not a high concept
- Market is saturated by the same genre or topic
- No one knows about the book
- The quest is all about the writer
- The writer forgot to pray and give all the glory to Him
Perhaps the last point should be our first …
Where does God fit in our plans? Has he purposed our holy grail of writing? Or has our quest taken the place of the God who purposed our gift? Tough questions, and the answers may be tougher.
What does the holy grail of writing mean to you?
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She is a storyteller. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Mountainside Marketing Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson. She teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.
Follow DiAnn on Twitter: @DiAnnMills
The Conversation
DiAnn–Right! It all depends on why the writer is writing, and what, for them, will be the ultimate achievement. When I started out in medicine, I thought it would be nice if I could give a paper before the state medical association. Actually, I became an internationally acclaimed expert, much sought-after for lectures…but it didn’t bring me happiness. Curing patients did. So, the first thing to do is pin down what the reason is for our writing. After that, it falls into place.
Richard, thank you so much for your wisdom. The why, the motivation, moves us all.