Today, I will discuss several topics: what it means to me to be accomplished as a writer. Did I become more accomplished during the time in the MFA program? Is there a difference between being successful and being accomplished as a writer?
I have been observing several writers over a period of time. It started with going to reading clubs and seeing debut writers with their books. The writer that I wrote about last week, Ron Yishay Ishi, I virtually met him on Zoom with another writer through Jewish Book Council sign-ups. Ron was interviewed during that Zoom. He piqued my interest by talking about his books. Later on, I purchased both of his books. Dog and The Girl Who Rode the White Lion. Both books are fiction but based on true events. I have finished reading Dog, and I am reading the second book for my thesis. The Girl Who Rode the White Lion is a story about World War II and the Holocaust. Ron wrote that book as a dedication to his grandfather, who survived the Holocaust but then committed suicide later on by setting himself on fire. Since I am writing my thesis about a Holocaust survivor, it helps me to read books about the Holocaust and World War II. Another book I am reading now is a historical nonfiction called “Poland 1939: The Outbreak of World War II” by Roger Moorhouse. My Holocaust survivor is originally from Poland, but now it’s Belarus.
After I started following Ron on Instagram, his platform seems to be actively growing; he vlogs daily, some different anecdotes that directly bring him back to his books. He found his niche, which is what makes him successful on Instagram. He also travels to other countries, like Australia, for a debut writers conference. He is spreading his message about his books; he is networking and promoting his books. He was published by a small press. He also needed a translator because originally his books were written in Hebrew.
Another way that I have met writers is through an indie bookstore that has monthly book clubs. They read books written by indie writers, and you have a chance to meet the writer. As a matter of fact, I am going to that book club this Saturday. I have read the book already, and I can also get an autograph and a picture with the writer after the book club hour. Blogging about those events on my Instagram also helps me grow my platform. This is a symbiotic relationship where I promote others and widen my audience.
I do believe that I have become more accomplished during the MFA program. I have gotten published multiple times in literary magazines and journals. I have built my own website. I have learned from many professors and studied multiple techniques to improve my writing. I have built confidence in myself as a writer. I have read many books on the craft of writing. I have started my thesis that would eventually be my first book. It boosted my confidence to approach publishers. I have a three-page CV now that is based on the last two years.
To be accomplished, you have to be successful first. I see that as a consequential road to becoming a writer. Your success builds a foundation for your accomplishments. Your accomplishments bring you success!
