I’ve written before about subscribing to screenwriting emails, newsletters, that kind of stuff.
I’ve never really kept track of how many, but it seems like a lot. Especially based on how often they seem to pop into my inbox.
A majority cover the basics: tips about what makes a good script,examples of what to do and what not to do, how to develop characters. Standard screenwriting 101.
All of these are great for when you’re still finding your way. You should constantly be taking in as much information as you can.
But this week it hit me: I don’t think I fall into that category anymore.
I’m well aware I don’t know everything. There are a lot of writers out there with much more talent than me, but I at least have a pretty good grasp of how to put a story together.
And based on recent events, all that time and effort is starting to pay off.
My writing is much stronger than when I started out. I have confidence in my abilities. My work’s received very positive feedback from trusted friends and colleagues. I have a manager who’s very enthusiastic about my script.
There’s still a ways to go, but I feel that much closer to actually establishing a screenwriting career than ever before.
So now it’s time to move on, hit ‘unsubscribe’ and put a lot of those emails behind me.
It’s also a safe bet my inbox is going to start becoming a little less crowded.
Maximum Z 
I came to this point in my career when I realized I no longer qualify to enter most contests. I do agree that you still need to learn things, however.
That sounds like a very nice point to reach. I’d like to get there someday too.
Yeah, same here. Thats one of the great ways I can imagine to come to that sort of realization.
A writer should never stop learning. Once you know the basics (and I agree with you: for me, I no longer need the 101 stuff but I do review once or twice a year just because) it’s time to move on to how to better express ideas and say things just right and develop a signature and voice that’s our own. There’s more I could add, but it’s hard to describe. I trust we understand.
I agree. I also think working with the basics so much makes them practically second-nature, which frees you up to take things to the next level(s).
I always liked the writing expression “You have to know the rules before you can break them.” And I think that’s where I am now.