Literature has played a large role in the lives of millions of people throughout history. Some of the greatest, most influential people, ever to have lived have been writers. Yet so many young people today are so hesitant to pursue a career in the Writing Industry. Held back by fears of failure and unemployment, the world may never get to read the works of some of the most talented youths of today. 

I was able to speak to Lottie Mills, the 2020 winner of the BBC Young Writers’ Award, about her views on the topic: 

“I absolutely understand why young people might be worried about pursuing a creative career, especially with all the financial concerns. But I would absolutely encourage any budding writers to persevere as much as they can - not only is writing great fun and so good for your mental health, but we need all the new voices as we can get!” 

Lottie won the prestigious award for her short story, ‘The Changeling’ after being shortlisted in 2018 for her piece entitled, ‘Unspoken.’ She expressed how they ‘are both quite personal, emotive stories’ to her, ‘in very different ways.’ This meant that writing them was a ‘really cathartic process’ but inevitably made her feel quite vulnerable. 

“I was a little worried about putting material which I'd really poured my heart and soul into, into the competition,” Lottie said. “But the judging process was so sensitive and thoughtful. It's also been so rewarding to hear other people relating to my stories, especially disabled people reading 'The Changeling' who might not have seen their experiences represented much in fiction before.” 

Her success speaks volumes about the perseverance and determination needed in the sector; but more so, proves that it is possible for young people to leave their mark on the Writing Industry. And in the current climate, it has never been more important to take the plunge. 

However, with mutterings about the death of the industry and proclamations that publishing will cease to exist within the next 25 years, it begs the question: 

What is the point? 

Lottie had this to weigh in, “I truly believe that literature is more important now than ever - with politics growing more extreme and the world becoming more turbulent and unpredictable, the unique ability of books to provide solace, reflection and vital commentary is essential.”  

It is especially important for the Writing Industry to reflect the diversity of our society; this can only be done through individuals sharing what they have to say.  

For Lottie Mills, it was the feeling of a ‘huge drive’ to share her stories, which drew her towards writing: 

“Growing up as a disabled person, I almost never saw my experiences reflected positively in fiction. Even when disability was present, it was treated as inherently painful or sad. I am determined to set the record straight in my writing, and hopefully allow other disabled young people to enjoy the representation I lacked.” 

Although the idea of sharing your work can often seem daunting, and young writers often have no clue where to begin their careers, Mills advised this: 

“Write as much as you can, whenever and wherever you can - don't be afraid to experiment, and write whatever takes your fancy, even if you think it seems silly!” 

She also recommends investing time into creative writing clubs at school, and of course to enter your work into competitions, like the BBC Young Writers’ Award, as her involvement with them has changed her life. 

So, whether your passions lie with playwriting, poetry or any one of the thousand forms of literature, it is vital that you keep with it!