[New] The Writers’ Page Chapter One What Does a Writer Look Like?

by Barry Koplen photo by Barry Koplen

to the door and open it.

To your surprise, you see me, an author you’ve known for many years. Because you read my first book, No Gold Stars, you welcome me with a hearty handshake.

“I’m here to help you win,” I say. “Let’s get started.”

You hand me the paragraph, ask me to read it.

While I’m reading, you say, “That’s my only clue.” You sound disheartened. “I know I can ask a question, but I have no idea what question or its answer would help me.”

Trying to offer a little comfort, I ask, “Are you a writer?”

Quickly, you answer, “Only if you count thank-you notes.”

When I nod, as if considering that to be an important reply, you seem puzzled.

“Why do you ask that?”

I smile at you and your question, then say, “Long ago, you discovered you weren’t a writer. Even so, you knew how to appreciate writing that’s well done.” I point to the paper. “Don’t you agree that this is well written?”

“Yes, but why is that a clue?”

I answer his question with one of my own. “If you decided tomorrow to be a writer, how long would it take you to write a paragraph this well?”

For a moment you pause. “I’m sure I’d have to be taught. And I’d have to practice a lot. Probably, I’d need to work on my vocabulary, and…”

I stop you in mid-sentence. “So, what does that tell you about the writer you’re looking for?”

Without hesitating, you answer, “They’ve been writing for a while.”

“Just like me,” I respond.

Hearing that seems to please and relax you. We’ve turned away from the lineup as if we’re about to begin a conversation that has nothing to do with making a selection.

“Now I know why I loved No Gold Stars,” you tell me.

“Please explain,” I say.

“Because you took the time to write it so well. It makes me wonder how long you’ve been writing.”

As soon as you say that you notice my smile. Immediately, you understand.

“That’s my one question, isn’t it?”