As Much As My Heart Flutters, I'm Worried The Destiny Is Jealous Of Us

As much as my heart flutters, I'm worried the destiny is jealous of us

- 'Serendipity' by Jimin (of BTS)

I usually don't distribute writing advice, but here's what I think new writers should know:

EVERYONE WRITES DIFFERENTLY.

I'm not kidding! Every piece of writing advice is 100% life changing useful to ONE person while being TOTALLY USELESS GARBAGE to a different person. Not only that, but YOU YOURSELF can write differently depending on what story or book you're working on! Not only is every writer different, but every book is different!

So that presents a problem, doesn't it? You're a new writer and you want to improve. You want to learn from the wisdom of those who came before you. How do you know which advice will work for you and which won't?

My first rule as a writer: know thyself. What do you like to read? What do you envision your work looking like? This will guide you in accepting or rejecting advice. It'll also help you find your voice.

My second rule as a writer: try it. Once. Give that advice a try but be willing to drop it like a hot rock if it's not helping or, worse, hindering.

My third rule: feedback from people who have actually read your work? Surprisingly helpful! But be careful to pick people who actually seem excited about the idea. A Debbie Downer can ruin your day and self-esteem.

My fourth rule: there are no rules. Go forth and have fun.

“Listen closely: the only time it’s too late to change yourself is when you’re dead. Until then, you’re simply making excuses or lying to yourself.”

— Unknown

no one gets me, or will ever get me, like my pinterest algorithm

An echo resounds through me as my fist collides with my chest. A forlorn reminder of the empty, hollow, nameless thing that I am. I don't even feel human most times.

Perhaps it all really is some simulation. No memory ever really ours; only some ploy meant for entertainment of the bored creator.

-penned by j. m. medna (2024)

// Art: “Paysage” by Henri Mauperché

“The paradise of the rich is made out of the hell of the poor.”

— Victor Hugo, “The Man Who Laughs”