7 Writer Stereotypes That Need To Get Busted Right Now

Writer stereotypes can be found in movies, television shows, and even books. So it’s no wonder that telling someone “I’m a writer” can lead to wince-worthy misunderstandings between writers and nonwriters. In many cases, these stereotypes deserve to be busted, tossed out, and replaced with real people living real lives. Have you ever been typecast as one of these common writer stereotypes?

7 Writer Stereotype Examples That Are Totally Cliché

Plucky go-getter. This might be a poet, novelist, or even an aspiring journalist who doesn’t yet know the ropes. Always managing to say the wrong things and show up at the wrong time, this writer stereotype overcomes social awkwardness with an intrepid spirit and determination in the face of adversity. But this writer can also run into trouble when optimism leads him or her smack into the path of injustice. The go-getter works with tireless enthusiasm to write things that open people’s eyes — for better or worse. But don’t worry. It usually works out in the end!

Hermit. Living in a quaint, tiny house on the outskirts of town (or in a secluded area), this writer works the land, reads classic books, and takes long walks. The hermit uses writing to hold up a mirror to the world — while also stepping away from it. An unappreciated genius, this writer may never publish anything during his or her lifetime, but years later will have a collection of work that is revered by many.

Party animal. This writer stereotype paints a picture of larger-than-life creatives who play as hard as they write. Wild parties ignite volatile relationships for the party animal, but those stories of love and heartbreak fuel a creative inner life. Unpredictable, spontaneous, and deeply attached to the perks of fame and admiration, this writer moves people to laughter and tears on the page — but pays the price in real life.

Self-destructive addict. This is the writer who sits alone for weeks or years at a time, with a drink or drug of choice at his or her side, while indulging in long, lonely writing binges. Usually, this writer is portrayed as cantankerous and irritable, but also vulnerable and lost. This stereotype digs deep into the heart of humanity’s ugliest emotions and addictions…