Introduction: The question which matters
I’ve been writing—creatively—for several years now. But have never stopped to ask, this seemingly cliché’d question: why do I write? Reflecting on the power of storytelling in creative writing, it appears that the ability to shape narratives holds a significant influence over our emotions and perspectives.
To me, the answer would always seem quite obvious: because I love it! Yet, isn’t that as cliché’d as the question itself. However, I’ve grown as a writer over the years. And as I’ve come to realise that question simply isn’t that important to me, it does remain crucial to anyone who values the power of story!
The Inescapable Pull of Creative Writing
For people like me, writing is not a choice. And, whether that be through personal journaling, or through my literary endeavours, it’s a necessity. Writing is vibrant life source of mine. And when I don’t write down all the ideas and words onto paper, I feel unwell. I cannot ignore this calling. Whether I intend to publish or not. I wouldn’t feel like I’m living my most authentic life.
That, in itself, makes creative writing both a pleasure and a curse. Especially when the drive to create and convey an equally great and potentially dangerous challenge.
The Beautiful Solitude and Daunting Isolation
The other downside to this—highlighting one of the potential dangers. That is that writing can, more often than not, be an intensely solitary activity. It’s no more than you, your thoughts and a blank page screaming right at you!
Sometimes this can be a beautiful place, and some writers cherish these moments—me being one of them. But this space does offer up some of its own challenges. Self doubt for instance.
There isn’t a serious writer who hasn’t had a sleepless night questioning the words they wrote (or didn’t write). If you’re in that category, know that we all sympathise.
Beyond Self-Expression: Emotional Benefits of Writing
The act of writing is enough—
I used to believe the opposite. However, hours upon hours of spilling my heart and soul onto the page. And I’ve always been hoping to dazzle readers with breathtaking prose only caused me to run head-on into a brick wall. That is, I met severe writers block and anxiety.
To progress, I had to let go. There was no longer time for pretentiousness and hoping that one day my work would hold up to the likes of Hemingway and the countless other writers I idolised. By now, I have realised, I was missing the point.
Successful creative writers understand that it’s not about just wanting to write great prose. It’s about creative expression. Writing that creates connections which starts conversations. And writing bridges that gap between self expression and getting their words down on the page. It took me a long time, and endless self-judgement, before I learnt that simply writing was more than enough. In that breath, it has its own rewards.
The Problem Solving Power of Stories
Declaring that stories contain the power to solve the world’s problems might sound grandiose to some. Yet, most people never stop to consider the unique ability writing has to show us what’s possible.
I’ll use myself as an example here because I have, what some may call, a vivid imagination. I also spend time considering what is going on—for ill, or good-will—in the world right now. But, I do not believe for a second that I can deliver world peace. What I can do is write. This enables me to explore my emotions in a safe and effective manner. From there I’m able to place things into a better perspective. I feel less distraught and anxious about what is occurring around me. And, at the end of the day that solves a lot of problems for myself.
This is not to be dismissive either, it’s just my way of bringing positivity into the world; which is something I believe to be contagious.
Writing: The Creative Expression Through Words.
I said early that writing can be a very isolated and personal journey; only to say, know… that it doesn’t have to be—
And while I definitely write with the door closed, I’ve surrounded with a very tight, and a very supportive network. Whom, without, I’d never have finished my first novel. They’re that important to me. Plus, what they’ve taught me—along the way—is that personal challenges are all part of the package. But overcoming them results in true creative expression. And once again—just to reiterate—this expression is best experienced beyond the realms of isolation.
Finding Your Writing Voice
I recently read that we now consume more information and data, in a single day, than an 15th century intellectual did so—in a lifetime. Ultimately it’s led to a great overwhelm in a world that seems to be filled with ‘white noise’.
So, why then would it be relevant to suggest that voice—any voice—matters?
For me, the simple answer is perspective.
As an example, we are more inclined to listen to certain voices. That’s because some level of trust and rapport has been developed. But your voices—as much I believe mine does—matters too. And that’s because it, by virtue and way of life experience offers a unique perspective. And that’s what matters.
Through my own writings, I hope to offer insights and to challenge readers in a positive manner. And also to provide comfort and understanding where it’s needed. And my belief is that has the power to connect with people on a deep and meaningful level.
Conclusion
Creative writing, and the reason why writers write—especially for me—is because it’s more than just a hobby, or profession; it’s a vital source for self-expression and creativity. It’s also a powerful tool that promotes connection in a world that, all too often, feels cluttered. But, through words, we can all explore the depths of human existence and the challenges life creates. It’s our bridge to understanding. A conduit to meaning and, whether we choose to read and write for personal fulfilment or to explore our inner worlds, it’s important to remember: our voice matters.
So, embrace the solitude in creation and join in the community of shared experiences that is reading and creative writing. Keep asking questions and challenging the world for better answers, but most importantly, don’t stop exploring. Because, in the end, it’s not about why we read and write, but how the experience impacts, not only us, but the world around us.
