of money. They're following a dream in which, perhaps, just maybe, they can see their work for sale on a shelf somewhere, and even cash a small check. I offer this critique not as a straw man easily knocked down, but rather as someone who got about 100 pages into writing his own cookbook and found, well, that I didn't really have much of a book at all. I became exactly what Michael Ruhlman knew I would become. But what I gained, however, is an organized list of refined recipes, a kickass chili mix, and the experience gained from a semi rigorous process of trying to develop a publishable list of ways to cook a half decent meal. And I believe I'm better in the kitchen because of it. Which leads me to this quote; as far as I'm concerned, what makes it successful is the fact that it encourages people to cook . I. Completely. Agree. Perhaps this is what struck such a strong chord with me. How can Michael Ruhlman begin his post with 'advice' that would diminish someone from pursuing their passions while defining success by something that does just that? -- getting people to cook. I suspect that most people that come to this blog are somewhat similar to me in regards to the enjoyment they get by creating something in the kitchen. To them I say, if you want to, WRITE. Be it a blog, a failed cookbook, or even one that gets published, WRITE