For Writers: Perseverance is More Important than Talent + Octavia E. Butler

Reed, Write, and Create

On today’s episode of the podcast, I’m sharing a pep talk about perseverance. The truth is, perseverance is the most important habit, or superpower, a writer must have, even more than talent. You can be the most talented writer in the room, but if you can’t figure out how to keep writing in the face of hardship and adversity, then you’re not going to succeed in this game.

To help explain the importance of perseverance in a literary life, I’m sharing the incredible true story of how Ms. Octavia Estelle Butler went from being a poor, young, Black girl with a dream, to a multiple-award-winning literary superstar. More than just a celebrated science-fiction writer though, Octavia Butler’s career is a master class in perseverance and what it can get you.

Listen in to hear the extraordinary story behind Octavia Butler’s success as a Black woman writer in a white-male dominated field. Be inspired by her unwavering perseverance. And get actionable ideas to incorporate into your own writing practice to help you stay writing even when life gets in the way.

Links from the Show.

Watch Ta-Nehiesi Coates’ short but inspiring video on the importance of perseverance in a writing career.

If you’re looking for a beautiful book about Octavia Butler’s early years, consider Star Child: A Biographical Constellation of Octavia Estelle Butler by Ibi Zoboi. Technically it is a middle-grade book, but it is so gorgeous and brings Butler to life through poetry, prose and photographs. If not for yourself, consider getting it for a young person in your life.

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