Writers. Photographers. Cartoonists. Artists. Puppeteers. Historians. Coaches. Designers. Musicians. Singers. Entrepreneurs. And many more.
Blogosphere is filled with so much talent.
I land on sites which are so eloquently written, I feel I’m reading a novel from the New York Times best seller list where each word is so captivating I can’t wait to read the next. And other sites have posts so informative and well researched, they could be pages in a college text book.
Blogs draw people from all walks of life with talents which continue to amaze me.
Today’s Lesson
When I started blogging, I knew I wanted to share what I’ve learned and continue to learn in life. I wasn’t sure if there was a right or wrong way of constructing posts, so I wrote how I talk. In some instances it’s pretty cut and dry, whereas other times I’ll share a short story before getting to the point.
My words are simple. My sentences often short.
And although I use the written word as a vehicle to share, I don’t call myself a writer.
I’m a blogger.
To me there’s a difference.
Writers have a love affair with words.
Writers use words to spin a tale. To push the envelope. To take their readers on an imaginary journey. To conjure up emotions. Appeal to our senses. Leave us wanting for more.
As a blogger, I count my words. Weigh my words. Hope to make you think. Encourage you to share. Entice you to teach me more.
Some may say there is no difference.
But to me there is.
I’m a blogger.
What are you?
Today’s Assignment
Do you consider yourself a writer? Or a blogger?
Or do you think there’s a difference?
Care to share?
~Barbara
Writer, definitely. Blogging is too much like work. Writing is effortless.
Hi Deb,
That’s funny you should say that since I think “writing” sounds like work. When other bloggers have writing “contests”, my first thought is “No, I’ll pass. It sounds like too much work”. š
Oh, I’m definitely a writer. I love telling stories. Even when I’m trying to teach or just share my frustrations, I try to craft a story around the information that I am sharing. For me, pulling the reader into the story is more important than actually transferring information.
My blog is my principle outlet for my writing, but I have always considered myself a writer with a blog, not a blogger who also writes.
Hi Jay,
I see that in your writing. Where I would post something plain and simple, you post something eloquent and captivating.
That’s a good point – We have writers who blog and bloggers who write, but they’re not the same.
The medium does not define the writer. Novelists are writers. Those who write magazine articles are writers. Newspaper reporters are writers. And bloggers are writers. We’re all writers. Bloggers just use a different medium to convey our message.
I get frustrated by the same argument trying to define those who blog news stories as not being journalists. Just because they don’t work for a print publication does not mean those bloggers aren’t journalists. If they investigate and write news stories, then they’re journalists.
Now it doesn’t necessarily follow that we are *good* writers. Not even I have the chutzpah to claim I’m a good writer. But I definitely am a writer. Writing on-line doesn’t change that.
Hi Jodith,
You’re right. We’re all writers, and in some cases could even be labeled as journalists, reporters, or…, however it seems like “blogging” hasn’t, for lack of a better word, earned it’s place yet.
That said, I’m seeing a lot more bloggers on TV who are being asked their opinions on different issues, plus bloggers who have written books who are being interviewed. THAT I see as a good sign. Slowly we’ll get “there” and will hopefully be taken as seriously as someone who has a “title” behind their name.
Blogger. Hopefully I will get god enough to consider myself a writer some day. Until then, I will read writers and marvel at how much they do with the same words I have available to me.
Hi Kelli,
That’s one good thing about blogging. If someone wants to improve their writing abilities, there are many sites which offer writing challenges and lessons on word construction. Using a blog is a great way to practice writing plus test the waters. One thing about those who read our work, if we ask, they’ll tell us how we’re doing and where we can improve.
Happy Blogging! Happy Writing!
I write, therefore I am. I blog, therefore I write. I was thinking about this and wondering but could not arrive at a conclusion. It is something like I posted a few days ago: “Is there a difference between a song and a poem?”
I guess I will go with a writer but as the commenter above mentioned, not a ‘good’ writer, but writer nevertheless.
Still thinking . . .
Joy always,
Susan
Hi Susan,
“Writer” is such a general term, but I think we know if we’re a writer or not. Therefore, I agree, you’re a writer. š
Just like anything, writing takes practice, as does blogging. That said, I think we have a tendency to be hard on ourselves and often don’t see how good we really are.
Although I’ve written poems off and on over the years, and a few lame short stories as a teenager, I have never been a writer. I decided I wanted to blog to talk about whatever was on my mind at the moment. After doing that for a while, I began participating in some on-line writing challenges, and decided I like writing. As others have also said, though, I don’t claim to be a good writer…just getting started.
I guess you could label me as a blogger turned writer wannabe.
Hi Linda,
Isn’t it amazing where blogging can lead us? I remember reading articles about finding our passion and one exercise is to look at what we used to enjoy as a child. From the sounds of it, writing has been in your blood all along and blogging has brought that love back out.
I agree with Sara (see comment below), you’re a very good writer and are well past the wannabe stage. š
When I just started, I used to answer “blogger.” But now I feel that I’m a writer. I do love to write and I’m pretty good at it too!
Hi Vered,
Yes, you are good at it. And from reading your posts, it’s obvious you enjoy that process of choosing just the right words for conveying your message.
Yes you are a writer and a very fine one!
Oh what a great question, Barbara. At any given point in time – and sometimes depending who I’m talking to – I move bewteen “blogger,” “journalist” and “writer.” But lately I’ve been assuming a slash identity as in Delia LLoyd, writer/journalist/blogger…seems to work since I really do feel that they are distinct (I write essays and fiction so that feels like it falls under “writer”). Some day this will all be so simple, I hope!
Delia Lloyd
http://www.realdelia.com
Barbara — this an easy answer for me. I am definitely a writer, more than a blogger. I truly love writing. I love that a story will start as a simple phrase and develop from there…or I’ll see something in a picture and want to write about it. I can truly say writing is a passion for me and it fills me with joy.
Okay…I have to differ with Linda of the gray cat. I happen to know that she is a very GOOD writer. Her “magpie” tales are excellent. She’s definitely beyond being a “writer wannabe.”
I’m sure this true of many other blogger/writers or is it writer/bloggers who question how “good” their writing is. If you love what you do, it becomes a mirror reflecting that love to others:~)
Hi Sara,
I KNEW you’d say that as I know you love the writing process, and it’s reflected not only in your posts, but in your comments, as well.
That’s true. Many writers don’t see how good they truly are.
Hi Barbara
I’m a blogger but because I know what makes an interesting speech, I try and use the same style when writing posts. I try and keep things conversational with short sentences, a few bits and pieces of rhetoric and a touch of humour.
What I’ve come to realise is that the same formula is used by lots of bloggers.
Agree with you that some bloggers are actually writers and some of them are superb – no names no pack drill. LOL
Hi Keith,
That’s interesting that you write like you would talk when giving a speech – how appropriate for someone who blogs about public speaking. And when I read your posts, now that you mention it, I can see it. It’s like we’re listening to you and learning in the process. Good strategy!
Hi Barbara,
I think there is most definitely a difference between a blogger and a writer, although one can be both. I agree with your definition. As you so rightly say, a writer has a love affair with words.
Personally, I consider myself a writer as the majority of my posts are either short stories or poems. I love words, the emotions and thoughts they conjure, how they sound, how they feel. As W.H. Auden said, a quote I was reminded of my by this post, “A poet is, before anything else, a person who is passionately in love with language.”
But I am a writer that blogs. Blogging is my medium. I hope one day to publish a book, but at present, blogging is how I get my writing across to an audience. And it is wonderful š
Hi Sam,
That’s true. We can be both a writer AND a blogger.
I remember from previous comments of yours how you said you love words. And it shows in your writing. You’re very talented.
I’ve no doubt you’ll author many books. š
Interesting topic! I’m a writer without question. But I do keep the medium (blogging) in mind and try to write wisely given the context. I love bloggers who are writers. š It’s OK with me.
I confess I don’t even like the word “blogger.” Not very elegant!
Hi Sandra,
Truth be told, I’m not fond of the word “blogger” either, however unless we become published authors, I’d say we’re stuck with it. š
You’ve raised a good point. If we’re writers, should we write differently on our blog? Hmmm. That’s something to ponder.
Hmmm… methinks you’re a writer, Barbara, and that blogging’s the medium, but that’s just my opinion. š
And that’s how I consider myself. I’m a writer, and my medium happens to be blogging. If I am also called a blogger, then it’s merely shorthand for where you’d find most of my writings.
Actually, I may have overthunk this a bit. š
Hi Tony,
I don’t know. I just don’t see myself as a writer. Even though I use words to convey my message, I’m not “in love” with words like most writers are. That said, I do love numbers.
I see you as a writer, and a cartoonist. And, I see the day when the two shall merge and your work will be published. I know you may not see that, but my crystal ball doesn’t lie. 8)
Okay, Barbara… I have to ask. How do you make that little smiley guy with the sunglasses? He’s such a handsome fellow.
Hi Davina,
(I hope you don’t mind me jumping in here, Barbara!)
I love smiley faces! To make the sunglasses face, just type the number eight followed by closed parenthesis (no space in between. Like this: 8)
~xo
Thanks, Lori.
Like this? 8)
It worked! Yay!
Thank you Lori . š
I would say writer. It is a part of me. I love words and telling a story. It is a part of who I am. I have never really thought of myself as a blogger. I like this post. It made me think.
Thank you Silly Girl,
How lucky you are to be a writer AND a reporter. What a great combination. Plus you also blog. I see that as a winning combination.
Hi Barbara! Interesting question. I’ve always been a writer, but I haven’t always been a blogger. So I guess I’m a writer who blogs despite herself. Only difference for me is I feel “published” as soon as I get comments – yay for comments, since writers often write in the dark never knowing how what they’ve written has affected anyone.
hugs
suZen
Hi Suzen,
What a great way of looking at this topic. You were a writer first, blogger second. And I can see what you mean about feeling “published” when you receive comments. It’s like being at a book signing and others are raving about your “book”. š
Is that true? Some writers never share their work with others? I find that kinda sad.
Barbara,
“Writers have a love affair with words.” Yes! That’s me — a writer. I’m a lover of words, a lover of making pictures with words and a lover of evoking feelings with words. Writing excites me; I can’t help it. I get hyper just writing about writing š Blogging is just the medium for me.
You may not see yourself as a writer because, as you say, your words are simple and your sentences are short. That is your style. You are still writing, however your focus is more on the blogging and supporting other bloggers.
A good example might be an architect who doesn’t believe they are an artist because their drawings are so mathematical. There is still a skill and an art to how they present their drawing, just as there is a skill and an art to how you present your posts. And you put your all into your posts; it is obvious the research and planning you do. You are an architect type blogger who writes š
Hi Davina,
You’re another one who I KNEW would say you’re a writer. It shows in your posts and in what you said at the beginning of your comment. It’s definitely a passion of yours.
I know what you’re saying about me and my writing, but like I mentioned to Tony, I’m not “in love” with words. However, if I want to blog, my choices are written words, audio or video (all which require “talking” of some sort.
That said, I love blogging and all that goes with it, and to me, blogging is a passion. š
Hi Barbara, I do believe you have made a valid point here.
I am definitely in love with words. Does that make me a writer? I have always loved writing. When I lived in Paris in the early 80’s I used to send long letters home to my parents describing everything at length. They kept them and it has been delightful re-reading them over the years. I make hand made books for friends with personalised stories, anecdotes and poems in, creating covers with sea shells and driftwood from the beaches here. Yes, I believe I can say I am a writer.
Enjoy the journey.
Mandy
Hi Mandy,
Yes. You are a writer. I was smiling at the part where you said you wrote long letters to your parents, describing everything in length. Even back then, you were honing your craft. And the handmade books; they sound awesome. I’ll bet your friends just love them.
I would say blogger, because most of what I write nowadays are posted on blogs. However, back when I was writing more scripts, I would call myself a writer.
I think if one writes only poems, he will call himself a poet. If one writes many different things, if would be annoying to call himself a poet-novelist-essayist-playwright and he would just call himself a writer.
Probably a somewhat odd way of looking at it.
Hi Kelvin,
Your comment made me realize how sometimes our roles change. Like you said, right now you’re a blogger, but if you were to start writing scripts again, your title would be different. It’s like wearing many hats. š
I like to think I am a writer. However, maybe I am a blogger pretending to be such. I do believe there is a difference, but I have a hard time separating what I want to be from what I am. I should ask my readers what they think.
Hi Michael,
That’s a good idea. If you’re uncertain, asking your readers would be helpful. Let me know what they say after you’ve compiled the results.
Hi Barbara,
Me? A blogger that uses his blog as a way to learn to become a writer. I love to try to reflect thoughts and feelings in words and try to catch the readerās attention so to take him/her in a journey, but for now the journey is mine in the learning process, and an enjoyable one I should add š
Raul
Hi Raul,
I’d say you’re more of a writer since I’ve often taken that journey you created in your blog posts.
I agree. Blogs are a great medium for writers to use to practice and showcase their work. Plus, a blog can become your online resume.
This is a mind-boggling question to me.It’s very difficult to make a decision. =)
For me, being a writer is writing a story through your heart-It could be a fantasy, adventurous, suspense or tragedy. It’s like putting your own self inside the story. And through your imagination, you can make things possible.
Being a blogger is sharing all the things inside your mind and venting out your happiness, frustrations, pains or struggles. It’s like a journal of your every day activities.
Nevertheless, blogging or writing helps me to become productive and a better individual.
Hi Lyan,
Yes. It can be difficult to decide which one we are. In some instances I think we can be a writer, whereas other times, our blogging talents come out.
I’m curious. Do you have a blog on which you share your writings? If so. feel free to share the link & I’ll come and visit.
Blogging, as far as I’m concerned, is lazy writing. All you need to do is put a few thought down, in 500 words or less. There are no subtle nuances, no plot or character development. And what you put down doesn’t even have to be very good.
It could be anything. How cute your kids are. What you ate for breakfast. Tips on how to arrange your salad forks.
Anyone can do that.
But a writer is an artist with talent and skill. They’ll take those same 500 words, and arrange them in such a way to make you spew your coffee with laugther. Or cry with sorrow. Or you’ll be unable to step away from the computer because the story being told is just so damned entertaining.
Now THAT’s writing, to me.
And not everyone can master it.
The bottom line is, all writers can blog. But not all bloggers can write.
Hi Friar,
I wonder if that’s true. Can ALL writers blog? Even though they have the language mastered, if they haven’t a clue how to post to a blog, how to format their writings, or are technologically challenged, they may be too intimidated to try.
That said, I agree not all bloggers can write.
I usually do writing in blogging but I dont consider myself as a writer. I think I am most suitable as in the field og blogging,.writing is to broad and there are lots of things you should understand being a good writer:)
Hi Jerome,
That’s true. To be a good writer, we need to do more than just put words “out there”.
Hi Barbara,
Another goodie!
I’m loving the comments here, too.
I think blogging is a multi-media endeavor, a platform, per se. And a writer writes without adding the complexity of formatting, pics, vids, etc. I think most people here are agreeing about this.
That said, I think blogging tends to employ a specific type of writing. I don’t follow the typical rules, though (bullets, short bits of into, lists, etc.) because I AM in love with words, and beautiful prose, and very much enjoy the writing process. I just assume if people want the “typical” type, they know they probably won’t get it at JBN, and I’m okay with that. š
So, to answer your question, I think I’m a writer who blogs. Or, maybe a blogger who is a writer? Hmmm…
Great questions, again, Barbara!
Thank you Lori,
I see the writer in you. And you’re right. For some of us, what we share may not appeal to the masses (whoever they are), but if we write from the heart, in the manner we feel comfortable, then even the smallest audience will satisfy us.
On a side note. I think what happens a lot is a person starts blogging *expecting* to see a large audience show up right away and when that doesn’t happen, they start to modify their way of writing to attract search engine traffic and/or an audience of any kind, but in the process their (true) voice may get lost. And when that happens, it could be difficult to go back to the real *you*. (generally speaking).
I’m leaning more towards publisher that writes myself. I write most of my posts but I also use video and images along with it.
I thing the question of blogger or writer (or publisher) would be similar to asking a photographer if he is a photographer or artist.
I think bloggers are writers that use blogs. It does not matter if you use long or simple words. It really does not matter the reason you use the words. The written word is still the art you have chosen.
And your blog is definitely an art.
Thank you James,
That’s a good point. When we use videos, images, podcasts, etc in our blog posts, we do cross over to that “publisher” title; which in itself can be a real knack.
In fact, I like the term ‘publisher” much better than “blogger”. š
I have always written to communicate with myself…I do enjoy words and playing with them…I am using the blog writing to connect with others and to test whether I could get my writing linear enough to tell a whole story – Poetry just does not come to me, but I think I can paint an image with words in a short essay.
I can teach the most reluctant writer to write an essay…
My art form is being a Change Artist….and inspiring…
Using your definitions, I would say a writer who loves the comments on the blog….the blog community is kind of a mentor and supporter, where my reality based community just ignores me!
My ethics training wants me to encourage another to think – stretch that mode….
Hi Patricia,
I think writing to communicate with ourselves is a great way to not only practice the art of writing, but can also act as self therapy.
I see the writer in you in your postings. Plus, you’re also doing what you’ve set out to do; you make us think. And that’s a good thing. š
Hi Barbara .. I’d go with Keith Davis .. and his conversational style – actually exactly what my blog started out as .. I sort of tidy it up a bit for publishing, so it’s not quite so conversational ..
But Keith is right – and it ties in with my blog title etc ..
Though the process has perhaps taught me I can write and have an ability to pass on general knowledge and ideas .. and history! too – and so open up doorways to others .. I’m an eclectic educator, with a social fix – helping others via the stories/conversations .. which I believe will be one route I’ll be taking – as well as following Keith’s thoughts about ‘giving speeches’ .. ie talks to interested parties – interacting with others.
Now that is something my ex school friends and teachers would find hugely laughable! Oh well .. I’m a late developer ..
Thanks – interesting topic and comments .. I’m an all sorts – especially having had quite a few comments that I should write a book .. oh well .. all things in due time ..
Now – I look forward to what you say! Thanks – have a great weekend .. Hilary
You’re welcome Hilary,
You’re definitely an educator. I also so you as a Historian. As I’ve told you before, each time I visit your blog I learn something new; sometimes on a topic I’ve heard of, but oftentimes not. It’s always a pleasant surprise.
I agree. you have a book (or two) in you. I look forward to the day they’re published. š
I hope you’re having a great weekend, too.
Hi Barbara .. thanks for that re the blog – an educator of me, I think! It’s great to have your comment here though – always interesting how others perceive you ..
Yes – there’s a book or two here ..
& courtesy of Davina .. I’ve had my first WhoDunnIt published .. on her blog!!!! So I wait to see everyone’s reactions there … interesting times .. Fun too .. you too have a good Sunday tomorrow a.m. .. dampish one here ..
Hi Barbara,
I am eternally confused about this definition. I prefer being called a writer…but If I can add another term..i prefer to call myself a motivator. I write, blog, talk, share…..my message…whatever the medium, what I am is a motivator. Writing and blogging are my mediums.
Hmm..what do you think?..
Much love,
Z~
Hi Zeenat,
I think you’ve identified yourself very well since your blog and your profession motivate others, but I also see the writer in you. A women who wears many hats. š
This is a most interesting question. I’m a blogger who is interested in becoming more of a writer and using my blog to do that. My blog is my place of practice and I’m not concerned so much with how good my writing is at this point in time, but how much better it will become.
Hi Miss Becky,
I like that, “…Iām not concerned so much with how good my writing is at this point in time, but how much better it will become.” That’s a great attitude to have, and then someday you’ll be able to look back at those old posts and see how far you’ve come. š
Funny, with the internet today, everyone and their Aunt Murgatroyd is a now a “writer”.
Used to be, writers were a select bunch. They would be highly-skilled at their craft, much more so than the average person. And they earned a viable living doing it, because more often than not, they were published authors or columinsts.
Meanwhile, the rest of us just wrote in our diaries, or kept journals.
But today, anyone who can put together a few sentence on a blog now apparently qualifies.
Same as anyone who fiddles with their digital camera and Photoshop now considers themselves a “photographer”.
But hey…if that’s what people like to think to make them happy…whatever floats their boat.
But it does tend to dilute the qualifcations of the real writers and photographers in the mix…
Hi again Friar,
That’s true. Anyone can have a blog. Whether that makes them a writer is up to their readers and potential publishers to decide, but in the meantime the world wide web gives them a place to display their work whereas in the real world, they may not have that opportunity.
Yes. The emergence of new blogs can dilute the established qualifications of “real” writers and photographers, but it could also push them to be even better, knowing others are out there wanting their place in the spotlight.
This is certainly a question to brood on. For one to become a write, he/she must have a great command over words but for blogging we do not need such creativity or knowledge. I think I am currently a blogger who is wanting to become a writer
Good post, Barbara!
Blogging certainly has changed the face of the writing world. Writers have so many options open to them to promote their work. And POETS — oh my goodness, what a band of merry roving poets in the blogosphere, it’s amazing.
I started out as a musician on my blog, went more the blogger route, but now have veered back to the music sharing, and will continue to do more and more of that.
xo
Hi Jannie,
I agree. Blogging has changed the face of the writing world especially when we think of how within a short period of time we can write an ebook, call ourselves a published author and sell our work on our blog or even Amazon.
By the sounds of it, you’re going back to your first love; music. You’re so good at it, I’m happy to see that’s where you plan to concentrate your efforts.
Happy Singing and Songwriting. 8)
Dear Barbara,
I am not a writer, I am not a blogger, I am not even a cartoonist!
My problem is the nouns, I dislike nouns and labels. I prefer the verbs: Sometimes I write, sometimes I draw and sometimes I just enjoy the flowers, the fresh air and the smile of a woman. When you get a label of “writer” or “blogger” you won’t have to write anymore, and I don’t want to arrive there…
All the best,
Boris
Hi Boris,
I never thought of it that way – how if we label ourselves as one or another, it can change how we act (or react).
Now you have me thinking. Maybe I’m not a blogger after all. š
Well, unless you have a completely visual blog, a video blog for instance – then you are a writer.
I can’t see how you can separate the two. But writers come in as many flavors as there are people. When you write, whether a blog or a novel, you have your own unique style. A blogger is no different.
I just don’t worry about the distinction, I guess. I blog, I write – I try to be informative and interesting. Sometimes I use literary devices to help illustrate my words. Sometimes I use humor or employ techniques to help engage my readers. I’m not just a writer, nor am I jsut a blogger. I am a blog writer.
Hi Joella,
I like that – blog writer.
I know what you’re saying. Writers do come in many flavors, and those who blog normally write. For myself, I don’t feel that makes me a “writer”, but I’m definitely using the written word.
Whew! Now I have myself confused. š
Wordsmith?
Communicator?
I love this saying: There are 100 ways to skin a cat. I think that means that no matter how you slice it up it all just comes down to me getting my thoughts across to you. I do love words though.
OK, I’m going to just take a random stab at this. I’m a little bit afraid to lose, but hey, I’m throwing caution to the wind: Writer.
8)
Julie
Hi Julie,
Wordsmith? I don’t hear that term too often.
No need to feel afraid to lose. If you love words, you’re a writer. š
When I write books for MS Press, I’m a technical writer. When I write my articles for a trade journal or magazine, I write like a writer. And when I write some of my guest posts, I shift into my writer mode, where I put more emphasis on creating readable, enjoyable prose.
When I write my blog, I vary my style, but for the most part, I try to focus on “solving problems.” That’s just the role I picked for my blog. I use it as a channel to share lessons and help people lead a better life and make a better world for themselves … with skill.
I deliberately trade working on my writing for making impact a post at a time. I figure I’ll learn and improve as I go, and the quality of my writing will be a by-product of the process.
Hi J.D.,
You raised a good point. Where we’re sharing our words can determine how we write. It makes us the wearer of many hats, but in the process, like you said can improve our writing quality.
For myself, I see that when I’m writing company correspondence; it’s totally different than how I write online.