Why Writers Write: Is it really worth the effort?

If you are a non-writer, you probably ask yourself, why do writers write? If you are a writer, then you know why writers write. Or, at least, you know why YOU write.

I have recently felt compelled to reflect and ask myself, WHY? Why do I still feel compelled to write books when it’s so much work? Why do I continue to create blogs when I hear people don’t like to read anymore? And, why do I still feel all of my endeavors to make a life of writing is so vital.

When I think of how busy my years of blogging, book writing, and self promotion have been, I just wonder if it is all worth it.

We all have different reasons to create ideas from words on paper. But, here are mine, and why I will continue to walk the lonely, desolate, and sometimes seemingly pointless road of writing. 

Writers Express Themselves

Not all writers are introverts, but I most certainly am. I think it’s safe to say that many other writers are. 

Not only am I an introvert, but I am also a shy individual who finds it difficult to speak my mind or share my opinion through originally speech. 

In all honesty, I have often found that the best way to get along with others is to just observe others, smile, nod, and keep my mouth shut. Most people who share their opinions end up in arguments. It’s rare to find another individual who is satisfied with discussing opposing opinions, rather than arguing. 

I was always the kid with her nose in a book growing up. I admired how writers could express their feelings so eloquently and wished I could do the same. 

Check out: Read More to Write Better – Why Writers Need to Read

Up until my first college essay, I refused to share my real opinions even if it was on paper. The first time I received a poor grade in English was because my teacher said I merely “observed” and “retold” the events of the book. I did not share my opinion, which was the whole point of the essay.

Switching gears was definitely hard at first. But, I soon found a freedom in allowing my opinions to actually let loose. No-one could interrupt me while I wrote. And, no one could say my opinion was wrong, unless I got the facts incorrect.

To this day, the simplest and safest way for me to feel comfortable speaking my mind is through writing. I can finish my train of thought without having to worry about rebuttals. Also, I can more clearly express my opinion in writing than when I have to speak off the top of my head. I also use more eloquent words. 

People aren’t staring at me or making me feel pressure while I’m typing or scribbling away. 

All in all, I can say what I mean when I have the opportunity to write down my thoughts.

Writers Have a Compulsion

Because I find so much freedom from writing, I have developed a compulsion to write about everything that I can. Book reviews, travel logs, restaurants, student blogs, copy writing, ghostwriting, creative writing…. I’ve sampled many plates of writing an I’m still not full.

Writing feels like the best way to reflect on what I’ve experienced, which probably goes hand-in-hand with being an introvert – I need the time to fully absorb what I have seen, read, or heard. 

Not only do I feel a sense of freedom when I let my fingers fly on the keyboard, I imagine myself much like a pianist as the clicking of keys create a music as I communicate with the keyboard. The paper is music, and I am the musician. 

In school, I could almost fool myself into thinking that I was creating something important as I typed away my latest book review or blog. 

I remember feeling a bit self-important when I wrote something as simple as a research paper on the American flag. My fantasy of grandeur pictured myself creating work that would inspire readers as I argued citizen’s rights versus the rights of an American symbol. 

Never do I feel more important than when I’m doing what I do best – write. 

Writers Feel a Sense of Camaraderie

Despite the solitary lifestyle that seems to be that of a writer, the social community of creatives online is an invigorating aspect of being a writer. I get a thrill when I read about other writers and learn what they’re doing with their talents. 

My soul is moved when I read a well-written piece or see how a writer is making a living doing the very same thing I love to do. 

Writing can seem like a lonely business most times, particularly when everyone else I know isn’t a writer. Non-writers can’t understand why I do what I do, or why I love what I do. 

But, when I meet other writers, my infatuation with the written word feels justified. I don’t just feel puppy love; my soul has found its mate… in a manner of speaking. 

Writers Are Compensated

I sometimes find it incredulous how some people disregard the proper use of grammar, punctuation, comparison, or visualization. I completely understand that writing is a skill that some people don’t have. But, I fail to understand how some non-writers disregard or take this skill for granted.

However, because so  many people don’t know how or just don’t like to write (I’m shocked when I realize this is the majority), this opens up a window of opportunity for work.

Much like any other job, if you don’t want or know how to write something, then hire a writer, like myself, to do the work for you.

Learn About Amelia’s Services for writing or editing help.

Writers have to eat, and what better way to do what we love than to get paid for it, too?

Why Do You Write?

Really, I would like to hear from you. What makes you scribble poems on paper? Type away blogs on a keyboard? Punch reviews on your phone? Or, hole yourself up in a corner to write the next great novel?

Whatever your medium or form of writing, why do you do what you do? Share your reasons on why writers write.