Why Write?

Why write indeed? Such an odd question, don’t you think? For some of us, it comes as second nature…an outlet that we need to master in order to truly express ourselves. For some of us, it’s all about that wide window to the soul that opens when our words find their way to paper (or computer screen). Often enough, we blame it on the headaches we get from a multitude of intertwining thoughts barging into one another in that space we call our mind. And they keep doing that until we finally have them written down, in some way or form. It’s only then do we find peace.

The question, though, shouldn't be ‘why write?’ as much as ‘why do I want to write?’ What drives you, the creator of coherent sentences mixed into an astonishing paragraph that is just a building block of one entire story, to want to write? That’s really the first question you should ask yourself.

Writing is an art form, but not an innate ability or talent that some people have and others don’t. I truly believe that writing something interesting, something that is memorable, can be achieved through consistent practice and polishing of style, voice, and the tools we use to make up the world we want our readers to spend some of their valuable time in. Anyone can ‘write’. It’s what we do to develop our writing, and move forward in this art form, that makes our work truly inspirational.

However, just like any other art form, there must be a need for it. I’m not talking about essay writing, or a research paper that needs to be handed in and graded so you can make your way towards one certificate or the other. I mean sitting somewhere cozy, grabbing a pen and paper (or whatever electronic device you might fancy), and letting your imagination fly! Without this need, your ability to constantly push yourself to improve - to constantly develop your craft - will be minimal. Just like any other art form, it is the need of the artist that creates the ultimate masterpiece.

So, before you decide to write, ask yourself this: Why do I want to do it? Trust me, it’s not an easy question, and I’m not asking you to be philosophical about it. Nor am I asking you to shrug aside the notion that what you write will influence a large number of people. But, be honest with yourself. Writing takes time and effort, both of which will certainly frustrate you if the reasons for doing it are not immediately met. Just like a farmer, it’s a dynamic process that requires attention and patience, the fruits of which, I assure you, will be mouthwatering.

After you've answered that question, after you know for sure that this is the path for you, there are a few blueprints you’ll need to take a look at before you start. They’re simple and generic rules, agreed upon by almost every writer I can think of, and will definitely be important to the foundation of your craft.

Rule 1: No reading, no writing

Stephen King once said that if you do not have time to read, then you do not have time to write. I honestly couldn't agree more. There is no good writer who does not read. Whether you’re writing a short story or a novel, an article or a blog, if you’re not reading, don’t expect anything magical to happen. You can’t make a good burger without having tasted one first. The same goes for writing. Don’t ever be fooled into thinking you can skip this. The more you read, the better your writing becomes. Period.

Rule 2: Grammar and Spelling

Just like trying to bake a cake without the right ingredients, writing without proper grammar and spelling can be disastrous. This is not something you can just swing, and I can’t tell you how annoying it is to be immersed in a story and then brutally yanked out by a grammar or spelling mistake. When a story is well written, you can hear the words as you read them, and things like mixing up “your” and “you’re” are similar to hearing nails across a blackboard. Take the time to freshen up on your grammar, even if it does seem a bit tedious at first. You are your first editor, and no one will give you a valuable critique of your story if they’re busy dodging syntax errors.

Ok, so I’ll leave you with these for now, and honestly, it’s all you really to start with. Next time we meet, I’ll introduce you to some of the main elements of writing that you need to know, and we’ll build up from there.

For now, good night, and may your dreams be limitless!