Good Enough

Image 1Over my years of teaching writing I’ve had hundreds of people ask me, “Is this writing good enough?” This question shows up in different forms—“Is it publishable?” “Do I have talent?” “Should I keep going?” But it’s inevitable. I’ve yet to work with a writer (or meet any artist, for that matter) who didn’t ask it.

For a moment I’m always tongue-tied. Good enough for what? And why do they ask me? I’m just someone who has stubbornly written long enough and been lucky enough to have a few books published. But of course that publishing record gives me an odd credibility, and I understand how amateurs can make the mistake of assuming someone, anyone, has the authority to pronounce on their writing’s worth.

When I was in college, a professor (and decorated novelist) told me I shouldn’t bother pursuing my writing. This was a blow, but not as bad as you might imagine. What he didn’t know—and what I clearly did know—was that I had no choice. I had to write. I suspect my deep need was born of personality and curiosity, a passion for stories, a love of writing’s healing powers, and the fact that writing was my best form of prayer. I never stopped writing or stopped valuing the act of writing because I simply couldn’t.

Over the twenty-five years that followed, I, like every writer who has shipped her work out to be judged, received a phenomenal amount of rejection. Publishers and grantors and contests have rejected me so much I’ve come to expect it. Meanwhile I watch contradictions abound in the writing world: Poorly written books hit the best seller list, agents drop their celebrated literary authors, readers tell me about unrecognized books that have changed their lives, Margaret Atwood agrees to contribute her current novel to a time capsule library that won’t be opened for 100 years, clients with extraordinary talent choose not to share their projects of many years with anyone, self-published books gain respect, and thousands of closet writers put pen to page daily.

Is it good enough? Who knows? Who can know?

I do know, however, where not to look for confirmation of writing’s worth: The publishing world. And egotistical professors. Or anyone else that you don’t know or don’t respect. External affirmations may be great, but I’ve yet to meet anyone for whom they satisfy that aching doubt.

So I answer these writers by asking, “Is it worth it to you?” Quality writing comes more from hard work than talent. The process itself is unquestionably valuable. If it’s worthwhile to the writer, it is worthwhile. The opinions of respected readers are all gravy. An important part of becoming a writer is learning to trust what you value, and to be discerning in the readers you value. Join me on this journey.   –Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew

11 thoughts on “Good Enough”

    1. Me too—it comes at the right time. My memoir manuscript—focused on one extraordinary inner vision (mystical experience) and fourteen dreams over a number of years—is with editor #2. Is it good enough? It’s getting there. I’m my toughest critic.

  1. One of my college professors also told me that I shouldn’t pursue my writing. At the time, I thought it was valid input. 15 years later I’m horrified that a teacher would ever tell a student to give up on their passion (especially since I’m a writing coach!). I was so heartened to see that someone else went through this experience and kept at it.

    Thank you so much for this post! It really gave me inspiration today.

    1. Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew

      Lauren, can you believe that ANYONE would have the GALL to say something like that? A client of mine reported a similar story last week, inspiring this post. It’s outrageous. I’m glad to hear you’re still at it!

  2. I think every writer needs to read words like these at some point along the way to clear away the questions that come from self doubt or doubt brought by others questioning what we are doing. My answer is much like yours, it’s worth it to me. And I am compelled to write. I can’t imagine life without this beautiful outlet of expression.

    1. Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew

      Yes, Maery–although I don’t think the doubt ever gets completely cleared away. So we have to remind ourselves again and again… Happy writing!

  3. Elizabeth- you are one author on a very short list who I’ve ever witnessed personally responding to each comment. In my home, I have a short, white bookcase where I put each book which I proudly feel are meaningful on. Hardwood and Holiness is one of them. Thanks.

Leave a Reply to Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew Cancel Reply