Writers Unbound

This is my favorite definition of freelance, because of #4. It’s from WordNet.
Freelance: 1) working for yourself, 2) a writer or artist who sells services to different employers without a long-term contract with any of them, 3) work independently and on temporary contracts rather than for a long-term employer, 4) mercenary(a): used of soldiers hired by a foreign army.
Wikipedia elaborates on the origin of the word: “The term “freelance” was first coined by Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832) in his well-known historical romance Ivanhoe to describe a “medieval mercenary warrior” (or “free-lance”).”
I’m picturing myself on a large horse fitted for medieval battle, riding forward, wind in my face, lance…er… pen held high against the foe! Being a freelance writer is more adventurous than anyone realizes. Except for freelancers. We realize it, because we really do ride into battle every day. We don’t think of it that way. We don’t give ourselves enough credit for facing up to giants and coming out victorious. True, sometimes we retreat. Sometimes we come away from the encounter bleeding and bedraggled. Sometimes we roll over, bury our head under the pillow, and refuse the orders to march on.

There is a point to this analogy.

See that fierce medieval warrior up there? He is mounted on his horse, clothed in armor, and has his sword ready. He is equipped to be effective in battle. Then there’s this guy, the peasant.

He might be more comfortable, but he will die a lot sooner.

You get the point. Writing, and living, and surviving as a freelance writer is difficult and dangerous. Without preparation, proper weapons, and a good battle strategy, we’re not better off than a peasant with a pitchfork.

Next time: The proper weapons for a mercenary writer.

Image Credit:
Medieval Warrior from Mount and Blade.
Medieval Peasant from MaskWorld.