Embracing Humility in Writing: Avoiding the 'Great Writer' Trap
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The Illusion of Greatness in Writing
The notion of being a ‘great’ writer is immensely gratifying for many in the literary community. This belief can inflate one's ego, creating an illusion of superiority that distances them from reality. It’s clear that many in the writing sphere suffer from what I call the ‘great writer syndrome.’ How do I know this? Simply observe their behavior: they often take their work for granted, expect constant praise, refuse to engage with others, and believe they are the ultimate authorities in the writing world.
When someone is convinced of their greatness, they risk losing touch with reality. They confine themselves within their own limited perspectives and become anxious or defensive when confronted with new ideas or challenges. If such individuals take on editorial roles, they may offer advice that stifles creativity, resulting in a homogenous and uninspired body of work.
A realization struck me some time ago: despite our best efforts, many of us may only achieve mediocrity in comparison to the literary giants. This isn’t necessarily a negative outcome, but it should prompt those who are overly self-assured to reconsider their stance. Writing should be about sharing insights, igniting inspiration, and influencing thoughts, rather than merely showcasing intellect or wordplay.
The Dangers of Self-Perception
I genuinely believe that regarding oneself as a “great writer” is akin to a mental affliction I once struggled to overcome. Nowadays, I can easily identify the signs of this mindset, which include:
- Rigidly adhering to outdated writing conventions
- Unfairly critiquing others’ work from a biased standpoint
- Anticipating applause with every piece produced
- Failing to celebrate the achievements of fellow writers who take alternative creative routes
- Most critically, neglecting the fact that contemporary writing is about connecting with readers, rather than just the act of writing itself.
Transformative Mindset Shifts
Overcoming this mindset revolves around a fundamental shift in perspective. Recognize that claiming the title of ‘great’ is not your prerogative; it’s a label that must be conferred by others. Even if you’ve once been dubbed great, that doesn’t entitle you to perpetual recognition. While it’s gratifying to be seen as exceptional, such accolades are fleeting. The landscape of writing and the preferences of readers are in constant flux; what was once considered extraordinary may not hold the same weight today.
Staying grounded is essential; we are all learners in the realm of writing. There’s always something new to explore; it’s a lifelong journey. If you find yourself at the pinnacle today, remember that there’s little room for growth from that vantage point. Acknowledge that there’s still knowledge to acquire and that you are not yet at the summit. Strive for improvement daily while keeping your ego in check. It truly is that straightforward! Cheers.
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