Wings of a Writer

Note: I was inspired to write “Wings of a Writer” when I had the privilege of watching two mourning doves tend to their fledglings in a nest on my son and daughter-in-law’s deck. What unfolded in just one week was the inspiration for this post.

 

The baby birds were barely covered with shaggy feathers as they hugged close to their parents. Mother and father mourning dove took turns keeping the infant birds warm while they stayed with them at all times to protect them from enemies. The mother fed them with food she had partially digested and provided the sustenance the fledglings needed.

 

When writers begin their literary journey, they need lots of watching over. Editors and fellow writers stick close by, guiding them in their work and growth as budding authors. They often spoon feed the information needed to help young writers grow, encouraging them to take classes to develop their skills.

As time ensues, the birds are noticeably getting larger, often making comfort in the nest a challenge when the parent is present. Some birds grow more quickly than others, as you can see the difference between these siblings.

 

As writers progress in their abilities, they begin to outgrow the need for so much close interaction with editors and mentors. But everyone progresses at a different pace. Writers continue to need encouragement, but usually become more proficient at knowing how to problem solve. They are more and more independent. No longer does a mentor or editor need to hover, but the help is always close at hand if needed.

Mama bird still shows up with dinner to feed the young ones. But the babies have grown so large there is little room for a hovering parent anymore. The babies now keep each other warm. Papa bird shows up now and then, still watching out for the young fledglings and making sure they’re doing all right. But his role is being slowly phased out by the exceptional growth that takes place in the young ones.

 

Writers may now progress to other editors, even agents, as their abilities grow and their knowledge of the writing world expands. They are ever-growing in their abilities to seek out others in the industry to help them become professional writers.

Nearly full grown, these fledglings have grown so much, their parents no longer fit in the makeshift nest. Their white flight wings have now come in. Soon they’ll be ready to fly.

 

Writers are actively seeking editors, agents, and other authors at writer’s conferences and connecting with many in the field. Their knowledge of writing techniques has matured as they’ve taken classes and prepared to make their way in the world.

 

The fledglings have left the nest. They’re still within range of their birthplace, but their days of depending on their parents for every morsel of food is nearly over. Soon they will be self-sufficient, thanks to the care of their parents who have taught them well as they grew.

 

Writers can spread their wings when they have a strong foundation of support from editors and others in the field who have nurtured them along the way. Eventually, each writer must spread his or her wings out and take those scary first steps toward leaving the nest. It takes bravery to test flight our writing abilities. But soaring toward publication is a feeling like no other. Get ready to fly.