CGMA - Country Gospel Music Association

BECOMING A WRITER

and those to come, but the greatest is the expression of our mind and handiwork. With this article, I  
am challenging you to consider writing. Following are some things to consider.

MOTIVATION:  Your motives should be pure and sincere. From the outset, you must scrutinize your motivation. Are you writing to resolve issues?  Are you searching for popularity?  Can you write in good conscience, or are you writing out of anger, vengefulness?  

TOPIC: What we produce in written articles should be beneficial.  I don’t oppose fiction, which is solely for entertainment, but educational, enlightening material is more valuable.  Once you have determined the subject matter, you should seriously consider the dominant theme of your 
manuscript and how your material can best benefit all readers.

TITLE:  The title epitomizes the subject matter of a composition. It determines readership.  It should 
be intriguing, captivating, and memorable. It ought to indicate how the piece will unfold.

INDEX:  The sectional headings should be decided in advance. They may change as you develop 
the material, but a basic direction needs to be established from the beginning.

BODY:  Keep a running list of ideas before you, as the production evolves.  As you develop the wording, keep in mind your initial purpose.  Remain concentrated on conveying a valuable 
message.  Write in a way that holds the readers attention.  Be watchful of diversions that might 
distract from the objective.  Keep everything in good conscience, yet tell the unadulterated truth. Choose your vocabulary carefully, and be wary of over-using certain words.  Use a thesaurus consistently.  Employ worthy illustrations.  Frequently ask yourself, “is this making sense?   Is it 
simple enough?  Would I personally enjoy reading this material?”

CONCLUSION:  The conclusion should include a review of the major truths being pursued in the commentary, and motivate the reader to employ the concepts.  It should also recommend other compositions that further the study of the views.

EDIT:  Once the composition is finished, there should be a comprehensive effort to secure accurate spelling, search for better wording, more explicit dialog, and sharper illustrations.  It is always 
good to have outside assistance with the editing.

GHOST WRITER:  In most cases, it is wise to have the aid of an experienced writer who will assist without mention, or slightly share in the credits.  This is especially true if your vocabulary is 
lacking or your expression limited.  There is no shame in having someone else share in your composition.  It could be a very wise choice.

CIRCULATION:  Finding someone to assist with the production and circulation of your composition might be difficult.  You may have to underwrite your own work until you can locate an interested publisher.  We will be glad to make recommendations.  But remember, if it’s done unto the Lord, 
He will lead you to the appropriate connections.

 And until next time,  thank you for considering this ministry in your heart and prayers.

EDITOR'S NOTE: You can contact CGMA (Country Gospel Music Association) by email at cgmabranson@centurytel.net or by phone at 417-336-1919.  You can also visit their website at www.countrygospelmusic.com for a broader view of this life-changing ministry and membership 
information.  CGMA is a sister organization to the Country Gospel Connection and we recommend 
it highly to anyone seriously involved in ministry.  You need them in your backfield!"