This is the whole problem. People think “there are no rules” is empowering—but it’s a trap. It’s like telling a beginner guitarist, “Don’t worry about chords, scales, or rhythm—just play whatever you feel, and don’t let anyone make you feel bad about your artistic voice.” That’s not freedom. That’s neglect. Writing is a skill. Like music, dance, or painting. You can learn it. You should learn it. And yes—there are rules. Not arbitrary ones. Objective ones rooted in how stories work on readers. Learning the craft doesn’t erase your voice. It amplifies it. So yes—you might be an inferior writer right now. That’s not an insult. It’s just the starting line. You get better by learning the structure and principles that make great writing work.