B is for Blog

What's the point of writing a blog? I've been asked this by a number of bemused people who point out that if I put the sheer number of words I've written into a book, I'd probably have a hefty paperback. True. 

Other people suggest I have a giant ego need to put myself on show at all times, like an electronic sign flashing 'Look at me!' Maybe.

But actually, my main reason for doing it is to process the experience myself. Five years ago I wouldn't let anyone read my work because I was afraid it was crap. I thought I did have some natural storytelling talent, and that idea was so rewarding I didn't want to challenge it with actually failing. As I gained enough confidence to actually write some stuff, and let a nice OCA tutor have a look at it (and criticise it), I recorded the journey for myself. Having set myself a goal (get something - anything - published) the blog helped me take my development as a writer seriously. I would improve by practice, by listening to feedback, and eventually by understanding the craft. I would go as far as I could, and celebrate that with other people on the same journey. My fellow bloggers have been an enormous encouragement to me, and I thank them.

Maybe I won't get a novel published, but that's no reason to stop trying. I'm still getting better, and I know that because I can see the progress through these posts.