What Separates Great Writers From Average Writers?
There are three types of writers; There are those you read their work and forget about it as soon as you stop reading. There are those that you appreciate their work when you are done reading. And finally, there are those whose work changes the way you see and view the world.
Indeed, all writers are not the same. But what is it that truly separates the great from the average? Is it talent, discipline, or something more elusive?
There are many factors but here are a few I consider fundamental.
1. Mastery of Craft
At the heart of great writing lies an unwavering command of the craft. Great writers aren’t just good with words—they are masters of language. They understand the rhythm of a sentence, the power of a well-placed comma, and the emotional weight carried by each word. This mastery isn’t born of natural talent alone; it’s the result of years of study, practice, and relentless refinement. Great writers know the rules so intimately that they can break them to powerful effect, while average writers often struggle to keep the rules straight.
2. A Unique Voice
Voice is the fingerprint of a writer. Great writers possess a voice that is unmistakably their own—a blend of perspective, tone, and style that sets them apart. It’s not just about how they write, but how they see the world. This voice doesn’t come easily; it’s developed over time, through a deep exploration of self and an unflinching commitment to authenticity. Average writers often imitate the voices of others, never fully stepping into their own.
3. Relentless Curiosity
Great writers are insatiably curious. They are perpetual students of life, always observing, questioning, and seeking to understand the world around them. This curiosity drives them to dig deeper, to explore the complexities of human experience, and to bring those insights to their work. Average writers may touch on surface-level observations, but great writers delve into the nuances that others miss, offering readers a richer, more textured narrative.
4. The Ability to Connect
Writing is, at its core, an act of communication. Great writers have an innate ability to connect with their readers on an emotional level. They understand that the best writing isn’t about impressing the reader but about moving them. Whether it’s through a poignant story, a relatable character, or a powerful argument, great writers make their readers feel something. Average writers, on the other hand, often struggle to create that connection, leaving their work feeling flat and uninspired.
5. Discipline and Persistence
Writing is hard work. It requires not just inspiration but discipline and persistence. Great writers show up, day after day, regardless of whether they feel like writing or not. They push through the doubt, the distractions, and the countless drafts that don’t quite work, always striving to improve. Average writers may write when the mood strikes, but great writers understand that consistency is key to honing their craft.
6. An Understanding of the Human Condition
Great writing is often rooted in a deep understanding of the human condition. Great writers have a keen sense of empathy, allowing them to create characters and narratives that resonate with the universal experiences of love, loss, joy, and despair. They write with a level of insight that reveals truths about ourselves and the world we live in. Average writers may tell a story, but great writers illuminate the human experience.
7. Fearlessness
Perhaps the most defining trait of great writers is their fearlessness. They are willing to take risks, to tackle difficult subjects, and to expose their vulnerabilities on the page. Great writers don’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths—they confront them head-on, often revealing aspects of themselves in the process. This courage to be raw and real is what makes their work resonate so deeply with readers. Average writers may play it safe, but great writers embrace the risk of failure in the pursuit of something extraordinary.
Final Thoughts
The path to becoming a great writer is not exactly easy or sexy. It demands more than just talent; it requires dedication, a unique voice, relentless curiosity, and a flair to connect with readers on a profound level. But for those willing to put in the work, the rewards are immeasurable. Great writers leave a lasting impact, their words echoing long after the final chapter has been read. Average writers may tell a story, but great writers change the way we see the world.
So, if you’re striving to be a great writer, ask yourself: Are you willing to push beyond the average? Are you ready to master your craft, to find your voice, to be relentless in your pursuit of truth? Because that’s what it takes to transcend the ordinary and create something truly extraordinary.
Congratulations! You made it to the end!
