Male Writers: Exposed!

The Truth Behind the Assumptions

Image created by EB Saenz

The myths surrounding the male writer.

I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve been asked if I’m a tortured soul, brooding away with a gaze that could pierce the soul.

Sorry to disappoint but I just have a beard because I’m too lazy to shave.

Don’t even get me started on the millionaire playboy image, complete with a private library that’s straight out of a Bond villain’s lair.

Nope, I’m just a regular guy who writes in his PJs (if that), sitting on a desk chair that’s seen better days.

It’s amazing how many ridiculous assumptions people make about us male writers.

Thanks, Stephen King, for perpetuating the stereotype.

But let’s set the record straight: we’re not all dark, mysterious, and wealthy.

At least, I’m not.

My family just thinks I’m a little crazy, and that’s okay.

I’m here to shatter these illusions and hopefully bring a smile to your face.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s get real about what it means to be a male writer.

Assumption — We’re All Tortured Souls

Photo by Zachary Nelson on Unsplash

Let’s get this one out of the way.

Yes, I have a beard.

No, it doesn’t mean I’m harboring deep emotional scars.

I just like the way it makes me look like a lumberjack.

And as for the brooding gaze, I’m pretty sure that’s just my default expression when I’m trying to remember where I put my keys.

The idea that writers are inherently tortured souls is a romantic notion that’s been perpetuated by literature and pop culture.

But trust me, most of us are just regular folks who like to tell stories.

We don’t spend our days staring out of rain-soaked windows, contemplating the meaning of life.

We’re more likely to be found staring at our screens, trying to meet a deadline (probably self-imposed).

Assumption — We’re Millionaire Playboys

Photo by theroyakash on Unsplash

I wish I had a private library that rivaled the Library of Congress.

I wish I had a sprawling estate with a harem of adoring fans.

But the reality is, most writers who also don’t have a “real 9–5” struggle to make ends meet.

We’re not rolling in dough; we’re more likely to be rolling in debt.

And as for the 9-to-5 job, let me tell you, writing like I do (before work) is no cakewalk.

It’s not all fun and games, sitting around in our pajamas, sipping coffee, and waiting for inspiration to strike. We have to put in the hours, just like everyone else.

The only difference is, our work is often solitary, and our “office” is usually a cluttered desk tucked away in a dimly lit corner of our living room.

Assumption — Male writers are Geniuses with Photographic Memories

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I’m flattered when people assume I have a superhuman brain capable of solving number theory problems for fun or recalling entire novels verbatim.

But the truth is, I’m just as forgetful as the next person.

I have to make notes, outlines, and reminders just to keep track of my own thoughts.

And as for solving complex math problems in my head for fun, let’s just say I’m still struggling to get my Excel formulas to work. And I mean the easy ones.

Writing is not about being a genius; it’s about being willing to put in the work, to research, to revise, and to edit.

Assumption — We must be Hopeless Romantics

Photo by Daniel Silva Gaxiola on Unsplash

I’ve written about some pretty mundane topics in my time, from toilet maintenance to avocado toast.

But that doesn’t mean I’m secretly a swooning romantic, waiting for my soulmate to come along and appreciate my sensitive side.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a romantic at heart.

I love a good love story, and I’ve been known to get a little misty-eyed during a particularly sappy rom-com.

Read my article on Nicholas Sparks’ ‘The Notebook’ and you’ll understand: https://medium.com/write-a-catalyst/damn-you-nicholas-sparks-5effcf8c168a

But my writing is not about expressing my inner poet; it’s about communicating ideas, telling stories, and making people laugh.

Assumption — The Recluse

Photo by Prakriti Khajuria on Unsplash

This one always cracks me up.

The idea that writers are allergic to sunlight and human interaction is just plain silly.

I have friends, family, and a social life (albeit a limited one, thanks to my work and writing schedule).

And as for the beret and worn leather satchel (you know, recluse garb), I think I’ll stick to my baseball cap and faded jeans. Thank you very much.

I’m a writer, not a cliché.

The Truth About Male Writers

So, what’s the truth about male writers?

We’re just regular guys who like to tell stories.

We’re not tortured souls, millionaire playboys, geniuses, hopeless romantics, or recluses.

We’re just people who are passionate about writing, and we’re willing to put in the work to make it happen.

We have our own quirks, our own flaws, and our own strengths.

We’re not defined by our writing alone; we’re defined by our humanity.

And if you want to get to know us, just ask us about our favorite books, our favorite foods, or our favorite TV shows.

We’re not that different from you, after all.

So, the next time you meet a male writer, don’t assume he’s a brooding, millionaire genius with a photographic memory and a penchant for romantic poetry.

Just assume he’s a regular guy who likes to write, and you’ll probably be right.

My Free Verse Poem Summation

In the shadows he weaves his tales

a master of words a keeper of secrets

his eyes, like midnight dark and deep

concealing truths, and mysteries

cramped fingers, a map of his soul a labyrinth of thoughts

forever whole

Thanks for reading!

I’m honored you spent your time with me.

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Take care.