Meaning: The quote "If you want to write, write it. That's the first rule. And send it in, and send it in to someone who can publish it or get it published. Don't send it to me. Don't show it to your spouse, or your significant other, or your parents, or somebody. They're not going to publish it." by Robert Parker encapsulates the essence of taking action and seeking publication for one's writing. It emphasizes the importance of persistence, determination, and the understanding that sharing one's work with friends and family may not necessarily lead to publication.

Robert Parker, an American writer known for his detective novels, offers practical advice to aspiring writers with this quote. His words serve as a reminder that the act of writing is just the beginning; the crucial step is to share one's work with the intention of getting it published. This quote encourages writers to take the initiative in seeking out opportunities for their writing to reach a wider audience and make an impact.

The first part of the quote, "If you want to write, write it. That's the first rule," underscores the importance of actually putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and producing the work. This simple yet powerful statement emphasizes the need for action and the commitment to the craft of writing. It serves as a call to aspiring writers to stop procrastinating and start creating.

The second part, "And send it in, and send it in to someone who can publish it or get it published," highlights the proactive approach that writers should take in seeking publication opportunities. Rather than keeping their work hidden or sharing it with uninvolved parties, Parker encourages writers to take the necessary steps to submit their work to publishers, literary agents, or other relevant outlets. This proactive attitude is essential for writers to make progress and increase their chances of seeing their work in print.

The final part of the quote, "Don't send it to me. Don't show it to your spouse, or your significant other, or your parents, or somebody. They're not going to publish it," serves as a reality check for writers. While it's natural to seek validation and feedback from loved ones, Parker reminds writers that the goal is publication, not just personal approval. This advice is not meant to discourage writers from seeking support and feedback from their inner circle; rather, it underscores the distinction between sharing for personal validation and seeking publication opportunities.

In essence, Robert Parker's quote serves as a motivational and practical guide for aspiring writers. It emphasizes the importance of taking action, seeking publication opportunities, and understanding the distinction between personal validation and professional publication. Writers can draw inspiration from these words and use them as a reminder to actively pursue opportunities to share their work with the world.

In conclusion, Robert Parker's quote encapsulates the essence of proactive and determined writing. It serves as a reminder that writing is just the first step, and the ultimate goal is to share one's work with a wider audience through publication. Aspiring writers can take this advice to heart and use it as a guiding principle in their journey towards becoming published authors.