I think part of the problem is that everyone learns to write (to some degree) in school and believes that's all there is to it. They can write a letter, they can write an e-mail, why can't they write a book? Whereas they have a better sense of knowing they don't have incredible artistic or acting talent, say.

What I don't get is why writing is the art form that becomes "big" so quickly. I know a lot of people who take art classes, maybe show their art in local shows or sell their products on etsy, but don't have any thought of going large with it. Ditto acting--why are so many people entirely content with community theatre and don't go for the big time, as compared to someone who wants to write immediately looking at major publication?

Cheers, Dayle