Dear Prospective Writer

Last week, I had the honor to be part of the 2011 VONA Fiction workshop with ZZ Packer. One night, our group of writers met outside of class to get to know each other. This is what came out of a five-minute writing prompt we had for each other: if you could write a letter to someone who's interested in being a writer, what would you say?


Dear Prospective Writer,

So imagine me: 32, sitting cross-legged on this lounge chair with a few gray hairs, inhabiting a body that created cancer and survived it, writing to my 19-year old self who is taking your place. Maybe someone told you, too, that you have a way with words. An ability to put down your thoughts and feelings with a sense of abandon that is unusual. Maybe someone took an interest in your writing, seemingly believed in you, and now you're bedazzled with the idea of being a writer. You're young, foolish, believe me, but if it fulfills you in a way that nothing else does, then plunge. Think about what you love, what makes you alive. This is all a ride, but do what you love, be with those you love as much as you can. As far as I'm concerned, I think that's the only game with all this. Love yourself. Cherish and honor what you've been given. Be one of my heroes.

Signed,
Juan Alvarado Valdivia
6/21/11