Although this is completely true, there is a way to write well and that begins with some instruction (a mentor is even better). Taking courses from experienced writers makes all the difference in writing well, or at least learning to write well. For me, all creativity comes from the Creator so prayer is a big part of getting on the right page with Him each day. Psalm 127:1

Phil, I always tell people, "You don't need to spend a dime learning the craft. Watch movies. Read scripts. Write pages. Do that - a lot! - and you can get where you need to get." That said, I agree with your point: There is significant value of working with teachers and mentors who know the craft, know the business, and know how to teach. That can save a writer months, even years of time spent on their own learning the craft.

For some reason, this post makes me like writing:-) Anyway, related to this topic is this quote: "There are no rules in filmmaking. Only sins. And the cardinal sin is dullness." - Frank Capra http://m.imdb.com/name/nm0001008/quotes

David: Boom! There's the takeaway in one clean sound bite. Thanks!

And your classes did just that for me. Always grateful to you and Tom for your graciousness.

One of my favorite quotes, David!