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You are here: Home / Writing for Children / Quotation Motivation

Quotation Motivation

August 12, 2008 By Laura

“Poets and money are seen in each other’s company only rarely.”

–Michael Ellison, The Guardian, October 13, 1995

OK, maybe that’s not so motivational! And I think “children’s writers” in general could be substituted for “poets.” 

This quotation brings up mixed emotions for me. On the one hand, it’s true. I don’t write poems because I think they’ll make money. I write them because I love writing them. And the idea of writing without financial expectation is appealing.

On the other hand, it ticks me off. I don’t expect to get rich writing poetry or children’s books. But I do think it’s reasonable to be able to expect to eke out a living if you work hard enough. I just wish more of the eking came from the writing itself rather than the school visiting, workshop leading, teaching, etc. That way, writing could remain the focus, and the rest could be gravy, or for promotion, or for the excitement of sharing your work and being around the people you’re writing for. Right now it feels like the other way around.

But, I love writing for kids and teens, so I’ll keep eking:>)

Tagged With: quotations

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JANUARY NEWS

I loved the holidays! And I'm so glad they're over. A quiet, snowy January is just what I need. This month, I'm working on two board book manuscripts, and I'm making materials to go with my 3 spring 2023 books.

I'm also busy prepping for upcoming author visits and setting my goals and priorities for 2023. Wishing you a lovely start to your own new year!

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