
I showed up to my first writing group meeting in January 2010 with shiny new poetry. After introducing myself with my real name and real writing history, they invited me to read the piece aloud. I sat on my hands, … Continue reading
I showed up to my first writing group meeting in January 2010 with shiny new poetry. After introducing myself with my real name and real writing history, they invited me to read the piece aloud. I sat on my hands, … Continue reading
Maxie Steer is my pseudonym (gasp! NO WAY! Say it ain’t so!).
I’ll give you a moment.
…
Now that you’ve recovered from my truth, hear me out.
The reason I started writing under a different name is because I had other hopes for my writing career. I want to publish with the name my parents gave me, but on an academic platform. Back in college, I had written articles for business journals (none that were picked up) and thought I would be able to establish myself as an authority in that realm. It hasn’t happened yet. The hope is still alive, ya’ll!
But, if I’m really honest, back when I chose to be Ms. Steer I didn’t think it all the way through to that conclusion. Maxie was built out of fear and the adventure of becoming someone else, someone more bold, more artistic, less me. I had very little confidence in my writing ability and though I enjoyed my poetry and stories, I needed something to hide behind in case no one else did.
Many authors consider a pseudonym as a pragmatic step in forming their writing career. This three part mini-series is meant to help you navigate the nuts-and-bolts about writing with a pen name:
Why Use a Pseudonym?
If you answer “Yes” to any of the questions below, you should consider taking on a nom de plume.
Bottom line: have a good reason for using a pen name. You may not need one, but if you want to use a pseudonym, it can be a great adventure. Stay tuned for Part 2: Choosing a Pseudonym
Ask yourself, “What kind of writer do I want to be?” The question stretches beyond genre, facts, or preference and peeks into the fabric of your persona–not the one you have, but the one you desire.
Do you use a pen name? Tell us why in a comment below.
Check out this article by John Ward (not his real name) “What’s in a Pen Name“
You’re just not feeling it. Everything you write is crap, and you know when you say it out loud it’s not in the narcissistic way you go fishing for compliments on your literary genius. Perhaps you haven’t even gained the energy to sit in … Continue reading
Today is the day! The long awaited video premier on our YouTube channel is ready for your viewing pleasure. In this debut episode, we’re letting you in on some of our quirks and truths and giving you insight on what’s to come for our vlog.
Have a topic you want us to discuss in a future episode? Want to suggest a book for review? Think we’re too cool for school? Let us know by leaving a comment below or hitting us up on social media!