May 15

I am a big fan of (and admittedly a little jealous of) talented writers. I've been a big fan of reading my entire life - I was one of those kids who would try to read a book under the covers with a flashlight after bed time.

 

But it's only been recently that I've started to really appreciate the writing that goes into a TV show, movie or commercial. Perhaps it's the lack of "scripted" television that has brought writing's significance to the forefront. During the writer's strike of 2007-2008, we were inundated with even more "reality" (unscripted) television, and I think a lot of people became more appreciative of the importance of good writing.

 

I bring this up because I believe that there can be a real disconnect between good ideas and good writing. I think there are many people in this world who have brilliant ideas, whether these ideas are for a TV show, movie, book, or even an ad campaign. But I think there are far fewer people who can actually take those ideas to their full potential. This is not to say that I can't enjoy a good story when the writing is only mediocre...but I often find myself imagining how much better it could have been in the hands of a more gifted writer.

 

One of my favorite shows of all time is "The West Wing." I would imagine most people would agree that Aaron Sorkin is an extremely talented writer. On The West Wing, the writing was always so sharp and clever - it actually made me feel smarter after watching. But the series fell a little flat when Sorkin left in 2003. Don't get me wrong... it was still a great show. But it was missing the "spark" it had when Sorkin was writing. In fact, I've often said I wish I could have him writing for me, in my everyday life - I would seem a lot smarter.

 

Great writing, no matter the medium, can elevate a story or an idea in ways that can't be accomplished through great acting (in TV and movies), or great design (in ad campaigns). So to all of you truly talented writers out there, I express my admiration, jealousy, and sincere hope that you will continue to raise the bar and keep the great writing coming!