The "It" Factor in Writing

What is it that distinguishes mediocre writing from good writing? What is the "it" that successful writers have and unsuccessful writers don't? The answer is no different than the advice dispensed on talent shows like American Idol, the X Factor and The Voice. The true talents on those shows are the ones that so identify with their muse that they are indistinguishable from it. When they perform (exchange "write" for perform), they are one with their music (exchange music for "writing"). There is no distinguishing the artist from the art. Excellent writers, like excellent singers, are able to make their creations appear seamless, effortless, ethereal. These qualities come from hard, dedicated work that does not accept the concept of "good enough" and seeks only perfection. Writing isn't easy. No art is. And writers have to be willing to put in the relentless, grinding, sometimes mind-numbing work that is required in order to glimpse excellence. There is simply no shortcut, no other way around it. If you want to write well, you have to work and work hard and be hard on yourself until you get it right; and more importantly, not rest until you have it right. Quality is everything in writing, not quantity. Knowing and believing and practicing that is having the "it" factor.