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Speaking of luck …

July 31, 2011 by Dave Knadler

Today I’m writing from the Virginia home of my daughter Jessie, who writes the blog Rurally Screwed and who has emerged as a pretty good example of how one does the whole blog thing correctly. (Step 1: Make it about something, and update it every day, instead of just when you feel like it.) Jessie has also co-written the well-received cookbook Tart and Sweet and her humorous memoir, Rurally Screwed: My Life Off the Grid with a Cowboy, will be published by Penguin next spring.

I like to think she’s gotten a little bit of her writing talent from yours truly, but I have to admit having nothing to do with her work ethic and discipline. Now we’re sitting in the same room tapping away at our computers, and I’m struck by the difference. This remains just a frivolous hobby for me, but it’s a real job for her. I’ll often start riffing on some lame idea for a post, then say the hell with it and go read a magazine or play a computer game.  For her, not getting it done is not an option.  She doesn’t get paid by the post any more than I do, but she has somehow discovered that success is not a matter of serendipity. As the old saying goes: the harder she works, the luckier she gets. Two books written and sold — from the perspective of a lazy man, that seems mighty lucky indeed. From the perspective of a dad, it’s a lot more than that.

More along these lines:

  • North to Alaska with Michael ChabonNorth to Alaska with Michael Chabon
  • Crime writers, there’s a new sheriff in townCrime writers, there’s a new sheriff in town
  • Farm fresh food for the lazy
  • Thanks for the hope, Internet!
  • A bit more rain to prime the pumpA bit more rain to prime the pump

Filed Under: Books, Other Stuff, Writing

About Dave Knadler

Obscure writer. Lazy photographer. Bashful guitarist. Perhaps too fond of wine. Tireless nemesis of New York Times crosswords, Wordle, Semantle and all other puzzles du jour.

Comments

  1. Joan says

    July 31, 2011 at 4:34 pm

    I love Jessie’s blog. It’s the first thing I check when I get up in the morning. I found your blog through her blogroll. Your blog is second. Sorry, but there it is. You are certainly a talented family!

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