I was overcome, earlier today, with the sudden desire to reveal my closely held secret, as a writer, to what I really mean when I talk about draft.

Folks, when I talk about first drafts, second drafts, and the occasional third drafts, I’m really talking about beer. #awriterslife

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

Think about it: “I haven’t quite finished the draft yet.” “I finished the first draft in a single sitting!” #awriterslife #mindblown

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

It’s all code. “I’ve the first draft to a friend to comment on.” Yup. I bought him a beer. #awriterslife

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

When a new writer asks about the secret to getting published: “Work on those drafts. Finish what you start.” WINK WINK. #awriterslife

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

Editor: “Let me see the draft.” Translation: “Let’s go get a beer.” #awriterslife

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

Editor: “This draft really didn’t work for me.” Translation: “Coors Light? Seriously?” #awriterslife

— Jamie Todd Rubin (@jamietr) October 2, 2015

So there you have it. When I talk about drafts and writer, know you know what I really mean.