Goodreads asked John Hennessy:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

John Hennessy Aspiring is an interesting and positive word. It says that at somepoint in the future, the idea, the dream will be realised. However, I feel that you cannot 'aspire' to be something - not when it comes to writers. When I was younger, I 'aspired' to be a great martial artist. Did I reach that goal? I prefer to let my students and (non-fiction) readers be the judge of that. But for writers...I believe you either are a writer, or you are not. You cannot aspire to be one in the most basic sense. I believe that if you write, you are a writer, whether or not you are published, independent, just starting out, or have written your fiftieth book.

Shakespeare didn't need a publishing platform. He just wrote. Quill, ink and paper. Same for Jane Austen. That was it. So just write if you want to, and enjoy the experience. Writers write and cats miaow. It's a short life, so for sake of God...just get on with whatever makes you happy. And I promise you...writing is one of the most fulfilling things you will ever do. And if you don't write...read. It's just as wonderful!

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