My Writer's Manifesto by John Hayward

I believe the first skill developing writers need is confidence. What good will advanced levels of technique do for a writer who doesn’t believe?

I believe the act of writing, like reading, needs a sacred time, place and pose.

Composing happens best in isolation; proofreading happens best in community.

No work of art worth showing the public was ever completed in its first draft.

I believe a student’s voice is the most precious gift and the most profound self-discovery. Have you seen those videos where a deaf child, after surgery, hears his mother’s voice for the first time? Yeah, like that.

I believe the worst editing occurs in the head; the best, of course, occurs on the page. We are our own worst critics when we prevent ideas from leaving the incubator to mature. (See the first note about confidence!)

I believe that when thoughts fly faster than fingers, they should make their way into print through audio. Record a stream of unfiltered, disorganized thoughts and reassemble them into order later. Step one: get the ideas out.

I believe writer’s block is as easily solved as a driver changing lanes. If what’s ahead of you is not flowing, either transition to a different path or get out of the car.

I believe teaching punctuation without instant application in a piece of writing is like teaching an apprentice carpenter about nails and screws while swimming.

Oh yes, and similes and metaphors are like spices to a fine dish but too many spoils the meal.

I believe writing involves a lot of sitting, so if an author complains that the writing process is a pain in the butt, this may be partially true.

I believe in the muses named Chocolate and Moscato.

John Hayward is a teacher-librarian at Naperville Central High School in Naperville, Illinois where he formerly taught English. He didn't leave the classroom entirely, though; John also teaches English methods and writing courses at two local colleges. When not assisting students or teachers, John is likely writing something education-related or enjoying time with family. Connect with John on Twitter @jhaywardtwit or visit authorjohnhayward.com.

This month, the #TeachWrite Chat Blog will be sharing the Writing Manifestos of our community. What do you believe about being a writer?  Would you like your Writing Manifesto featured on this blog?  Are you interested in writing for us at another time? Fill out this Google form and we will be in touch with a date for you to submit your post.