Most writers dream of quitting their jobs to write full time. But here’s the truth: many of the most successful authors wrote their breakthrough books while clocking in somewhere else.
In this episode, we’re celebrating the long tradition of working writers including Stephen King, Cheryl Strayed, Toni Morrison, and Kurt Vonnegut.
These writers punched time cards, pulled late shifts, and still built lasting literary careers. And in today’s episode, you’ll learn how your own day job might be your secret weapon as a writer.
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Episode at a glance:
[03:10] Stephen King
Stephen King didn’t write his breakout novel Carrie in some cozy cabin retreat. He wrote it while working as a janitor at a high school, cleaning the same hallways where bullies once tormented kids, just like his protagonist.
[05:12] Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl Strayed was waiting tables in Minneapolis while writing her memoir, Wild. She never asked her writing to support her financially. Instead, she believed it was her responsibility to support her writing apprenticeship.
[07:28] Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison spent her days editing other people’s books at Random House. The Bluest Eye was written in the margins of her editorial work. Morrison would get up at 4am before her kids woke up, and right before heading to the office. She talked about how those early morning hours felt stolen and sacred. She had a brief window where she belonged completely to herself.
[09:13] Kurt Vonnegut
Kurt Vonnegut sold cars. He even opened up his own car dealership. He taught writing, he worked in public relations for General Electric, and as a police reporter. And through all of it, he was collecting material. Vonnegut understood that day jobs provide the raw material of stories.
Links Mentioned In This Episode:
Carrie by Stephen King
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Vonnegut
Quick Guide To Nailing Your Story Idea
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