Which Screwdriver?

When I'm looking for a three inch metal screw, why is it I can only find a two inch nail? When I need a chalk line, why is it the toolbox only offers me a level? The tools that I need are not that uncommon or far out of reach, but they are often nowhere to be found when I need them. This is particularly true when writing creatively. The notion of tools is an apt metaphor for writing. Stephen King has the right idea when he suggests as writers we need to hone our skills by inventorying our tools and continually adding to our toolboxes. He suggests vocabulary is the most basic of tools, such as the hammer or the flat head screwdriver. More specialized tools, but nonetheless necessary, are those such as a jigsaw. We need metaphor and simile as writers, but the command of their use is as important as the availability; there is no use inserting a simile if it leaves the writing unfulfilled or forced. Just as a poor plumb line makes for bad angles in construction, a mangled metaphor draws unnecessary attention to the writing.
The invitation to write about King's metaphor of writing tools as carpenters tools is a helpful jumpstart.