My book, Writing Tools: 55 Essential Strategies For Every Writer, is falling apart. It’s binding on the spine is torn halfway up, and this tear extends through several pages. It has stains and has been “dog-eared” throughout. It’s a book on the last leg of it’s journey.
But why is it in such bad shape?
It’s because I have read it at least a dozen times over the last two years. In fact, it’s a writing reference book which I am continuously rereading again and again with the intent of making it a part of me—or, more specifically, a part of my writing process.
Are their other writing books that deserve to be reread repeatedly? Certainly. For example, The Elements of Style also sits on my desk, and it isn’t in much better shape (although it does has the advantage of being a much shorter book!). I also have one or two other writing reference books floating in the wings, ready to make my “always reading” list.
Simply put, this book and my always reading list is part of my professional development as a writer; it’s a commitment to be working on the writing basics, every day, even if only for a few minutes. This book is part of my discipline to be continuously improving my writing craft.