In my opinion, anyone who is compelled by some inner force to revise a first draft–and then cares enough to revise it again–is a “real” writer.
But that’s not what this post is about.
No, this post is about what makes us feel like a writer. I’m continually amazed by those in my writing circle of friends who feel like they can’t “own” the title of writer. “I’m a teacher, and I do some writing,” they say (despite the publishing contract). Or they call it a hobby… All right, I shouldn’t be amazed. I do the same thing. Somehow, to call one’s self a “writer” sounds like a lie, at worst, and pretentious, at best.
But that’s not what this post is about.
Despite the publishing contract, the foreign rights, the new website, and the exciting stuff coming around the corner (next post, I hope), the one thing that has really made me FEEL like a writer happened today.
Today, I bought a writing desk and an antique chair and bookcase, on consignment, for cheap. Today, I set up the loft as my own personal writing office. Today, I organized my books on writing craft, my YA books, and my resource books. Today, I sharpened my pencils. Today, as I stared out the rain-streaked windows, I finally felt like a real writer.
What is it that makes you feel like a writer?
No cop outs. No “I don’t consider myself a writer” comments. Tell me what feels so good you dare to say, “Today, I am a writer.”
ANNE GREENWOOD BROWN - Regaining Equilibrium 
Congrats on the desk and organizing the space. Last week, I deposited a check from an essay published in an anthology. The clerk saw the check and said, “Are you an author?” My response: “Yes. I write.” Writing makes me feel like a writer. Not the social networking, etc. Just writing.
Ah yes…money sure helps, doesn’t it! And a big congratulations, Stacy!
It took a long time, and several published articles and short stories to make me feel like a writer. I wonder why it takes so much time for the title to sink in? An accountant will say, “I’m an accountant,” after their first day on the job. Thoughtful post. Your writing loft sounds lovely.
It needs a paint job before it’s lovely. I just hope it gets the ol’ muse hopping!