Self-Help Books for Writers
Ideas on how to structure a creative life.
Summer is the time when we seem to have the space to re-evaluate, and so I am talking with friends about how to survive as an artist—spiritually, emotionally, and financially. I also often return to a few books for guidance on subjects like how to structure a writing life. I thought I would share them with you.
The best thing to do is still to read great literature, but when the business side of it all creeps in, I go back to these. You may have to translate the wisdom in them for your situation and season in life—but all of these are helpful if you are launching or relaunching in some way.
My very old copy of this very useful book. There are newer editions, but old ones are still great.
How to Survive and Prosper as an Artist: Selling Yourself Without Selling Your Soul by Caroll Michels. This informative book is written for visual artists, but you can easily translate it to a writing life—or any creative life. In addition to artists of all kinds, Michels has worked with journalists, physicians, executives, psychologists, and rabbis. I have reread this book many times and always learn something new.
One great strength of this book is that Michels outlines what you can control and what you can’t, and the result is that you realize that you control more than you think. For example, when you don’t receive a grant, Michels shows that sometimes that result is your fault—and helps you learn how to take steps to fix problems and increase your chances. And sometimes, it’s not in your control at all.