I ask because I wonder if it makes a difference in our lives as writers - how we see ourselves, how we work (or don't) to improve our writing, whether we have high hopes for publication, etc.
Some companies have their older, more established people take younger, newer ones under their wing. A lot of professions seem to have mentors. It isn't talked about much in writing, it seems, but it's something I think about.
I know another writer - an author of bestselling books and all kinds of other things. I talk to this person via email quite often, and I like his work. I met him through my literary agent. He's my mentor, whether he realizes it or not. I'm pretty sure he didn't sign on for that role, and I don't know if he'd be flattered if he read this post, but I think he helps me work to be a better writer and keep faith in myself when I get those inevitable turn-downs from publishers.
Along with my agent, he's the most supportive (outside of family), honest, and unbiased person I have where my writing is concerned. Do any of you have someone like that? How has that person shaped your life as a writer?
