In fact, it is a favorite
comparison to speak of poems, stories, and other works of literary art
as being the children of the writer's brain; as if works of literary
art came about in precisely the same simple, yet mysterious,
way that children are conceived and brought into the world.
Yet the comparison must not be pushed too far, and we must not lose
sight of the facts in the case. You and I were not especially endowed
with literary talent. Perhaps we are business men and are glad we are
not so endowed. But we want to write and speak better than we do,
---if possible, better than those with whom we have to compete.
Now, is there not a practical way in which we can help ourselves?
There is no thought that we shall become geniuses, or anything of the
kind. For us, why should there be any difference between plumbing and
writing? If all men were born plumbers, still some would be much better
than others, and no doubt the poor ones could improve their
work in a great measure, simply by getting hints and trying.
However, we all know that the trying will not do _very_ much good
without the hints. Now, where are the master-plumber's hints---
or rather, the master-writer's hints, for the apprentice writer?
No doubt some half million unsuccessful authors will jump to their feet
on the instant and offer their services.
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