The Animals of Writing

Animals have a variety of qualities, and many apply to the writing life. Here’s my list of some characteristics that writers can borrow from their animal friends.

Bull Dogs - Bull dogs and other dog breeds are known for their tenacity. If you want to be published, don’t give up. Hang on, keep going, and work until you get what you want.

Jack Russell Terriers - Harness your energy and focus it on your writing and revising. Put your backside in a chair and get writing.

Turtle - Turtle have a hard outer shell, and writers need to develop a thick skin if they want to survive. You’re going to get feedback, criticism, and reviews. Learn what you can from them, but don’t take it personally.

Squirrels, Magpies, and Racoons - You need to be able to gather ideas and store them away for a future story. Keep a notebook or file. You never know when a character, description, or bit of dialogue will be useful.

Pigs or Hippos - Don’t be afraid to get dirty. Sometimes, you have to roll up your sleeves and dive in.

Elephants - Be steady, strong, and methodical in your work. Learn and improve your craft. And again, the thick skin doesn’t hurt either.

Lions or Crocodiles - Be fierce when you’re editing and revising. If something doesn’t move your story along, it has to go.

Cats - Find a sunspot or a nice cozy corner and curl up with a book once in a while. Reading is research.

Otters - Enjoy your writing journey. Be playful and creative. Have fun.