There are thousands of people the world over eager to write stories, some because they want a creative form of expression or to communicate a message, others because they think it is a lottery ticket to fame and fortune. There are three main traits I believe a writer must possess to have a glimmer of a chance of winning that elusive ticket. 1. Creativity You must possess an original mind to come up with new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no storyteller has ever gone before. A good writer has a unique way of expressing himself with words and a facility for language. You can lack this trait and still write a pedestrian story, rarely will it be a memorable one. 2. Curiosity I’ve met people who seem to completely lack curiosity about other people and the world around them. Their world must be very … beige. Sadly, I’ve read a few manuscripts by these people. It wasn't pleasant. Being a writer is about asking questions, getting underneath the skin of ...