This is quite an odd question, but here it is. I am not a writer in the general sense. I don't write books, stories, poetry, or any type of writing material. I just like to write in general. I have an insatiable desire for learning new words, enhancing my vocabulary, and becoming a better speaker. I feel like the more words I have at my disposal, the more stronger I grow and develop, and it will allow me to become a better critical thinker and will allow me to assess situations more clearly.. I know this sounds like gibberish, but that's the best way I can explain it. I just enjoy the process of learning. I enjoy being able to learn and grow knowledgeable and it feels very rewarding.. So would I be considered a writer in any sense?
It is a very subjective topic, this one, but to my mind, no. I would not consider you a writer. I would consider you someone who just loves to learn, who is open to new ideas, thoughts, expressions, theories, and so on. And, as a consequence records what he has learned. But writing is a craft that has to be honed, like carpentry or painting. It takes years of practice and dedication, to become a proficient writer. My favourite contemporary author, Jasper Fforde, wrote for ten years and had something like 70+ rejections before he finally became published. He considers it his apprenticeship. Hope this helps clarify things for you ILF
I agree. I'd consider you more of a scholar with a love of learning. To be a writer you have to, well, write. Not on a daily basis (thought most of us try to if life lets us), but at least on a regular basis, in my opinion. Even when I'm not actively writing my head is still bouncing around ideas and I'll jot them down in my little brainstorming notebook.
You said: Haven't you answered your own question? To be called a writer, you kinda have to, well, write. I've been writing ever since I could remember, and only in the past year have I called myself a writer, because it is when I started my novel in earnest. It's a title, like any other, and you have to earn it.
ditto that! you could consider yourself a 'scholar' if you study a range of subjects... if all you're interested in and study seriously is vocabulary, then you're a lexicologist...
I think no, because you don't write stories and you rather learn new words, which is fine but to be a writer, you will have to write stories or poetry. In that case, no at the moment.
I think it depends on what the OP means when he says "I just like to write in general." He apparently doesn't write fiction or poetry; not sure if he writes nonfiction, articles, op-ed pieces, blogs, or things of that nature. Writing letters or emailing or commenting on forums? Not sure that would "qualify" as a writer.
if one writes for publication [paid or not] and for total strangers to read what they write [not just for one's own pleasure], then one is a 'writer'... under that general category there are, among others: hobby writers beginning writers as-yet-unpublished writers seasoned writers and professional writers
What about writing personal journals for your own personal pleasure? No one will read it, it's just a place for you to store your own thoughts and ideas?
