The Number 2

The toughest job while writing any kind of essay, prompt or article is the first line. Yes, the topic is also a concern, but most of the times, even after deciding on a topic, the perfect starting eludes us. It is just like trying to ask someone out actually. Your first move, the pick-up line, has to be just right. It is no wonder that the saying goes “The first impression is the last impression”. Truly, what you do or say in that one split second makes all the difference. That is precisely why I have chosen to write on the one thing that has taught me so much in my life. The beginning has to be just what the doctor ordered. WRONG!

When a writer, take for instance, Richard Castle from Castle, starts writing a new book, how many drafts does he just put in the Recycle Bin? Loads, I am sure. After all, he does not hide his tendency to not write another page, let alone a book, until he has a proper inspiration; or in his words, A Muse. He may even make up the title, and even the first few pages, but surely, in the back of his head, there is a broken record chanting, “What the hell am I writing? It makes no sense!” But does that mean he will never write again? No. He may miss a few deadlines, sure, but he will be on the constant lookout for any reason, incident or experience that will come to his aid against his writer’s block.

On the same plane, a person, however experienced he may be in the field of what he is about to do, cannot be judged on his first move. Agreed, the pro in said field may have a few old tricks that always work, but then that really cannot be compared to the move of a novice. For all we know, the novice’s idea could well be a thought that had not occurred to anyone. Or, the more probable option, it may well be the epic fail of all times. However, that does not mean he cannot try again. Thomas Alva Edison did not stop just because his first attempt at making an unknown bulb-thingy did not work. Therefore, his first effort was no more than a stepping-stone to his inevitable success.

First’s of everything in our life are important. Nevertheless, sometimes, everything unfolds after a second chance.