I’m having what can only be described as an identity crisis. Having just moved to a new state, I’ve introduced myself to new neighbors, the people who come to my house to fix stuff, the mailman and others about a thousand times now. Inevitably people ask what I do for a living. It’s mandatory or something. I never ask other people but, for whatever reason, I’m asked that question numerous times each week. In my former life the answer was easy. I’d explain that I was a divorce lawyer and then count the seconds until all conversation around me ceased. Something about the phrase “divorce lawyer” changed the mood at dinner parties. Go figure.
Today when I’m asked the question, I stumble. Yeah, what the hell do I do for a living? The answer isn’t really any harder today than it’s been for the last twelve years. It’s just a different answer – I’m a writer. But, see, I live I California now. Everyone here is pursuing some sort of artistic pursuit. Saying I’m a writer feels awkward. Feels kind of unfinished or not specific enough or something.
Maybe that’s because it’s new. Maybe that’s because I’m not used to it yet. Maybe it’s because people look at you like, “you poor deluded thing” which is the point at which I start rambling about how I’m published. Maybe…well, I don’t really know why I stumble, but I do. So, from here on out, I’m going with mermaid. I’m a professional mermaid. I’m betting that will stop conversation even faster than saying divorce lawyer.
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LOL…love it…what exactly does a professional mermaid do?
by Jennifer Y. February 7th, 2007 at 10:23 amNo idea, but I’m not sure what a professional writer does either…
by HelenKay February 7th, 2007 at 10:45 amLOL… Hello Fred the Mermaid
Well, you could say “I’m a published romance author. Would you like a signed copy of my latest book?” And see what they say to that.
by Tara Marie February 7th, 2007 at 11:03 amWhen I need to put something down on a form or application, I usually put “home goddess.” You could be “the writing goddess.” Although that may be Nora Roberts. How about goddess writer in training?
by Sandy L February 7th, 2007 at 2:59 pmI love it.
by Dru February 7th, 2007 at 5:38 pmGood heavens, you’ve hit the big time and are a multi-book published author, not just a wannabe writer. Loud and proud, girl!
Besides, if you say, “I’m a divorce lawyer,” being in California, you’d probably make a whole lot of new “friends.”
by daftaz February 9th, 2007 at 12:02 pm