Monday, April 14, 2025

The Pooh Crew—Real-life People Every Writer Needs in Their Writing Life


by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

I’m a big fan of Winnie the Pooh—the original A.A. Milne version. I’m not opposed to the earlier Disney animation versions, but I have sweet memories of my dad reading me the original book at night before bed. 

Truthfully, it takes a community to be a writer. Very—VERY—few every succeed alone. Today I want to take a tongue-in-cheek look at who a writers needs in their Pooh Crew. 

Let’s take a stroll through the hundred acre wood and find some creative company inspiration.

7 Characters—From Winnie the Pooh—Who Can Help You Succeed on Your writing Journey

1. Pooh: The Encourager Who Has Your Best at Heart

Pooh isn’t the smartest or the most organized, but he shows up with love, snacks, and quiet faith in his friends. Every writer needs a Winnie the Pooh—someone who doesn’t have to understand the intricacies of plot arcs or passive voice, but who believes in you anyway. This person is quick to encourage and insightful when it comes to reasons you will succeed! A Pooh will remind you why you love writing and help you fend off the Heffalump doubts that creep into the dark times of discouragement. 

Your Pooh says: “You’re doing wonderfully. Let’s have a little something to celebrate.”

2. Piglet: The Quiet and Consistent Cheerleader

Piglet is small, anxious, and brave in ways he doesn’t always recognize. Every writer needs a Piglet—someone who cheers you on even when they’re scared for you. They may not make a lot of noise, but their quiet loyalty keeps you grounded. They’re the friend who sends you a text saying, “I read that chapter and cried—in a good way.”

Your Piglet says: “You may not think it’s good, but I believe in it. And in you.”

3. Tigger: The Adventurer with Boundless Energy

Tigger bounces in like a creative muse on espresso. He’s always up for an adventure and doesn’t know the word no. The Tigger in your life will spur you on to heights of bravery and fun you never considered possible. 

Your Tigger says: “Why not make your villain a time-traveling wombat? C’mon, it’ll be fun!”

4. Owl: The Wise Editor

Owl may be a little long-winded, but he knows things. Every writer needs an Owl—someone with knowledge of grammar, structure, and how to actually write a query letter. Owls are mentors, editors, or critique partners who guide you with their insight. Just be ready to check your own ego at the door and accept the wisdom this caring friend has for you and your writing.

Your Owl says: “This sentence structure is sound, but let’s examine the thematic arc in Act Two.”

5. Eeyore: The Realist

Eeyore is known as the gloomy one. But truthfully, he’s a realist. And he’s not afraid to tell us the hard things. Eeyores may sound pessimistic, but they’re often the ones who help you strengthen your work by pointing out what’s not quite right. Plus, they stick around even when the skies are grey.

Your Eeyore says: “It’s not terrible. But maybe try rewriting the second half.”

6. Rabbit: The Organizer

Rabbit is fussy, schedule-obsessed, and always trying to wrangle chaos into order. Every writer needs a Rabbit—someone who helps you stay accountable, meets deadlines, and keeps your goals on track. Rabbits may nag, but they’re also the reason your draft ever gets finished.

Your Rabbit says: “Stop editing Chapter One again. The deadline’s Tuesday.”

7. Christopher Robin: The Inner Child

Finally, don’t forget the you in your crew. Christopher Robin reminds us that imagination is sacred. As writers, we must protect our inner child—the part of us that believes in magic, plays with language, and tells stories not for fame or likes, but because they matter. Let Christopher Robin lead you back to wonder when the writing feels more like work than play.

Your Inner Christopher Robin says: “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

Bottom Line

We all need a writing crew—a community that’s made up of people who want to see us succeed and have fun doing it. 

TWEETABLE

Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

14 comments:

  1. Love the analogy! Thank you!

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    1. Marjorie, I had such fun playing with this analogy!

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  2. Edie, I love this post! The Pooh Crew is absolutely needed by every writer and I'm so mgrateful for mine. <3

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    1. Yep, we all need a Pooh Crew--Now I'm having fun figuring out who is which character!

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  3. A. A. Milne. My hero. :) Thanks for the analogies, Edie.

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  4. Edie - this is SO, SO true. The writing is a lonely effort, but the Pooh Crew fuels the journey. Great post!!!

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  5. I love this and Winnie the Pooh. Thank you for your wonderful insight.

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    1. When I came up with the idea I thought it was good, but in practice it worked even better!

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  7. I love Winnie the Pooh and your analysis is right on target. Thank you for this cheerful, encouraging, and realistic message. We writers need a boost, a reality check, and someone who loves us just for who we are.

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    1. Katherine, we really do! A little honest laughter goes a long way!

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