Becoming a Successful Fictional Writer: Is a Degree in Writing Necessar?

Is it necessary for you to pursue a degree in writing to become a successful fictional writer, or can you simply practice writing on your own? Many aspiring writers wonder about this, and the answer is nuanced and varies from one individual to another.

A Personal Perspective: Brian Sanderson’s Journey

Brian Sanderson is a prime example of a successful writer who did not need a formal degree to achieve his goals. He specializes in excellent storytelling and has an unparalleled enthusiasm for writing stories. Sanderson pursuing both a B.A. in English and later an MFA in Creative Writing was not the route that led to his success. Instead, it was his willingness to rewrite and refine his work that made the difference.

In his journey, Sanderson faced multiple rejections but never gave up. He worked on twelve unpublished manuscripts before finally getting one published. His agent’s feedback was a catalyst for his growth, encouraging him to make improvements. Eventually, after several rounds of revisions and rewritings, Sanderson’s work became publishable. It was not the degree that got him published but the relentless effort to refine his material.

Personal Experience: A Lifelong Writer Without a Degree

Some seasoned writers, like myself, have found success without formal education. I have dedicated my life to writing and have earned a living from it for nearly five decades. From my days as a freelance speechwriter earning significant sums to my current endeavors writing science fiction, fantasy, and crime fiction, the journey has been fulfilling despite a lack of formal writing training.

Personal experience and self-taught knowledge have been my teachers. Instead of attending writing classes, I have studied what successful writers do and incorporated what suits my style. Repeated practice has been the key to my success. For many, including myself, writing is a craft that is best learned through practice.

Expert’s View: Creativity and Interest Are More Important

Another perspective comes from an established fiction writer who has no formal writing training. They emphasize that becoming a successful fictional writer requires creativity and a genuine interest in writing. Regular reading of fiction can provide valuable insights and knowledge that are essential for growth as a writer. However, a degree is not a prerequisite for success.

Many self-taught writers do achieve success, and formal training may not be necessary, but it can offer guidance and structure that might be beneficial. My personal experience and insights can be helpful, but the real path to success is by doing: writing, learning from feedback, and continually improving your craft.

Conclusion

Whether you need a degree in writing to become a successful fictional writer is up for debate, and the answer can vary based on individual circumstances. For many, engaging in the craft through regular practice, studying successful writers, and making improvements is the path to success. A formal degree in writing can provide valuable insights, but it is not a strict requirement for becoming a successful writer.

Remember, the key to becoming a successful writer is to keep writing, to refine your work, and to learn from both your successes and your mistakes. So, if you have a passion for writing, start writing today and see where it takes you.