Our Endless and Proper Work: Starting (and Sticking To) Your Writing Practice

“The most thoughtful, engaging, encouraging book I’ve ever read about how hard it is to be a writer and why you should do it anyway.” ―New York Times bestselling author Sarah Knight of the No Fucks Given guides

Writer and editorial consultant Ron Hogan helps readers develop an ongoing writing practice as an end in and of itself, not a means to publication. Many people pick up the guitar without eyeing a career as a professional musician, or start painting without caring if they get a gallery. But with writing the assumption seems to be that the goal must be to get published. Why? Why is it acceptable to attain technical proficiency at “Stairway to Heaven” or plein air watercolors as a hobby, while writing is expected to earn its keep?

In Our Endless and Proper Work, Ron Hogan argues writing should be an end in itself. The founder of the literary site Beatrice, and creator of the popular newsletter “Destroy Your Safe and Happy Lives,” Hogan offers concrete steps to help writers develop ongoing creative practice in chapters such as “Reclaiming Your Time for Writing” and “Finding Your Groove.” Sprinkled throughout are adorable illustrations by “Positive Doodles” creator Emm Roy.

This concise, inspirational book encourages all people to take up writing because it can help you become a happier, more whole and engaged person.

“An accessible book that packs an impressive amount of wisdom and pragmatic advice into each chapter.” ―Mason Currey, author of Daily Rituals: How Artists Work

“Ron Hogan offers practical tips . . . alongside what is ultimately a philosophy of how to make a mindful and joyful adventure of one's life.” ―Raechel Anne Jolie, author of Rust Belt Femme