Writing Is As Easy As Driving A Car

Summary

The author compares the act of writing to driving, noting that while he relies on modern tools like Grammarly to write effectively, just as his daughter uses technology for driving tasks, both are able to achieve their goals despite differing methods and styles.

Abstract

The author draws a parallel between the skills required for writing and driving, emphasizing that proficiency can be achieved through different means. He humorously contrasts his driving style with that of his daughter, who tends to drive faster and relies on technology such as rear-facing cameras. Similarly, in writing, he acknowledges his dependence on Grammarly for grammar and style, whereas some writers pride themselves on their innate command of the language. The author accepts that he may not be considered a professional writer without extensive training and practice, but he values his ability to communicate clearly with the help of technology. He also encourages readers to support Medium authors by becoming full members and offers links for receiving his stories via email or contacting him for editorial inquiries.

Opinions

The author believes that both he and his daughter are equally competent drivers despite their different approaches and reliance on technology.
He likens the use of modern technology in writing, such as Grammarly, to the use of driving aids like rear-facing cameras, suggesting that both enhance the user's ability to perform the task effectively.
The author has a self-deprecating view of his writing skills, acknowledging that he is not a professional writer and relies on tools to compensate for his natural abilities.
He expresses a pragmatic approach to writing, focusing on clear communication rather than adhering to traditional writing methods without assistance.
The author implies that professional writers might look down on the use of writing aids like Grammarly, in the same way, he disapproves of his daughter's reliance on driving technology.
He values the role of technology in improving his writing and driving capabilities, despite his initial skepticism or preference for traditional methods.
The author encourages reader engagement and support for Medium authors, indicating the importance of community and mutual support in the writing ecosystem.

Perhaps I should say writing is like driving a car.

My daughter and I drive cars differently. Perhaps I should say we drive each other crazy when in the car. If Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos ever offer me a ride on their rockets, I can decline, saying, “No thanks. My daughter drove me to church last week.”

I say she drives too fast; she says I go too slowly. At the moment, she leads in the number of automobiles totaled in the last five years. But I excel in the number of scratches and dents.

There are areas in which we are equal. I can back a trailer, large or small, using my mirrors. She can back up the same trailers using her rear-facing camera. I can parallel park using skills honed over fifty years. She can find another parking place.

Overall, I’d say our abilities to drive are about the same. However, our styles and methods can be quite different. I feel like a superior driver because I can parallel park and back a trailer with mirrors and skill. She accomplishes these tasks with modern technology.

I’ve found that driving is similar to writing. I’ve encountered writers with the old-school ability to write perfect passages using their learned knowledge of grammar, construction, and style. That is not me. I have to rely upon tools such as Grammarly.com.

Professional writers probably sneer at such contemptible tools, much like I consider my daughter’s driving reliance upon cameras. Yet, I can communicate more effectively with modern technology tools than with my natural skills.

I’ll never pass for a professional writer without years of practice and professional training. As long as I communicate such that my readers understand me, I consider that good enough.

Disclosure: Grammarly.com edited this story.

If you haven’t joined Medium as a full member yet, please consider doing so. A portion of your membership fee supports the Medium authors you read at no additional cost and gives you full access to every story. You can use this [link].

Click this [link] if you would like to receive my stories by email.

Editors, feel free to contact me if you think my writing style would be a good fit for your publication.

Writing Is As Easy As Driving A Car

Perhaps I should say writing is like driving a car.

How I Earn $30 / Hr To Read Medium Stories

My rate isn’t always $30; sometimes, it’s $18.75.

BUSTED! — In Their Quest To Be Right, Editors Can Be Wrong.

My contact with some editors has taught me valuable lessons.