Special Writing

There are all kinds of standards to determine whether your writing is technically good, whether it measures up. These standards involve structure, symmetry, fluidity and technique; and if writing meets these accepted standards, we tend to think it's good. But there is a mile of difference between writing that is technically good and writing that is really good. So how do you know if your writing is really good? What standards are there for measuring this abstract quality? You know your writing is really good if it excites you as you write it, if you feel it almost writes itself, if it falls together seamlessly. If, when you read it, your spine tingles and you feel almost otherwordly, you know you have written something special. You have achieved that X factor that differentiates acceptable writing from exceptional writing. Not everything you write will make you tingle. Not everything must make you tingle to be good. Sometimes your best effort comes after tremendous struggle, sweat, frustration, and barriers; but that doesn't mean it's not your finest and worthy of high praise. The kind of writing that is truly special is a gift, when it comes to you; and if you write long enough, it will come to you. Just enjoy it when it comes, recognize it for what it is, and the rest of the time be ok with good, fine writing. If you build your skill and write from a solid foundation, the special writing will just be icing on a well crafted cake.