Writing and Writer's Block: Confessions of a Failed Academic
I never wanted to be a writer. I never dreamt of writing a novel or publishing a collection of short stories. I never imagined myself as an investigative journalist breaking the news of the latest scandal or introducing readers to the intricacies of competitive rabbit breeding. I was content being a reader of novels, short stories and newspaper – and, most of all, knowledge. I adore knowledge (and really don't care if it's economically useful). I love learning (and chose my university course because I knew next to nothing about the subject). I love a good argument. I read non-fiction for the facts and ideas that they offer. I read whodunits for the opportunity to accompany a police detective or private investigator on their journey of discovery. I write because I am socially awkward and shy. I don't notice when I bore you with my niche interests or when I raise my voice in excitement (although I have been told often enough to know better than to talk about wha...