Writing.Com General Discussion

I'm not sure about the "art" part. Usually, what is and is not art is a determination made at some future date, when a work is perceived to have transcended its era and thus enters the canon. Whatever that is.

I think talent vs. craft is a more useful pairing. Or, to put it in more pragmatic terms, inspiration vs. perspiration.

Obviously, not all of us are equally adept at the same activities. I had classmates in grade school who were already well on their way to becoming first-rate illustrators, something that remains mysterious and impenetrable to me. Some learn instruments. Some master languages effortlessly. Some have a natural facility with the written word. Whatever talent is, it probably can't be taught out of a book. But if Edison is to be believed, it's still 90% perspiration.

Here's how I always think of it: there is no discernible difference, in terms of finished output, between a lack of craft and a lack of talent. So if you want to improve as a writer break out "The Elements of Style," and go back and revisit all the writers you're already reading, and study them as students. If you notice a distinct difference in the sound and quality of their words, as compared to your own, keep studying them until you begin to see why. Because craft can be taught and learned.