Answers for Professional Writers: I’m Not a Copycat, Am I?

Sometimes, writing can feel like a mine field. You start writing a story, thinking it’s an original idea. Then, you discover you’ve stepped on a mine: someone else has written the story you thought was original.

Truth be told, that is how my writing started. I’ve shared the story in my previous blog post.

Now, I want to revisit a question that burns at the heart of every writer who’s a fantasy fan: is there room for another writer who’s drawn to the works of Tolkien and Rowling without being seen as a copycat?

Yes.

If you do not believe me, read Michael Woodson’s contribution to the Writer’s Digest article series of “Writing Mistakes Writers Make.”

Adeptly titled, “Thinking There’s Not Enough Room for Your Story,” Woodson points out the story structure is the same, but no one tells the same story.

A fresh voice brings a unique spin on a tale that’s been told before.

Going back to my first writing attempt, I had sketched out my characters to be mockups from the Hobbit. Mom told me I needed to change my story.

I spent time thinking about it.

The Hobbit began with an unexpected party that would send Bilbo Baggins off on an adventure.

My 4th grade brain conjured a different take: two girls on a picnic to a waterfall. Little did they know that their picnic would set them off on an adventure.

Since that day, I’ve been on many adventures with my writing where I draw inspiration from what I love but bring my own voice, ideas, and vision to life with words.

I encourage you to grow beyond the core idea that started you, and I hope both Michael Woodson’s article with my insights offer inspiration to lean into your voice. Your voice keeps you from being called a copycat.

May you be enlightened in the way of writing.

Until next time, have a wonderful life. <3

Erin