I could probably write a lengthy explanation of why I write. However, after a couple of years spent trying my hand at fiction, years' worth of journaling, and increasing amounts of letters written to people, I can sum up the interest by simply saying that I communicate better when I write things down. I might be at a loss for words in a conversation but usually, after having time to think a little, I have quite a lot to "say" on paper about many subjects. Writing feels satisfying in terms of explaning what I think or feel about a thing.
As far as learning why others write, I appreciate this post and look forward to other responses. I enjoyed the sections of Stephen King's book "On Writing" that dealt with why he started and why he does it. (I enjoyed that book even more than I enjoyed the small amount of his of novels that I've read). I read a book of interviews with Don DeLillo, and I am just finishing up "The Diary of Anne Frank", in which she actually wrote quite a bit about her dreams of becoming a journalist and why she felt compelled to writing. I'd like to read more books on this subject.
I'm quite the same way. In conversation, unless its a witty comeback, I'm usually 15-20 seconds slow on saying something worthwhile or even what I really mean to say. So writing allows me to write at my own pace and then better hone it after I read it back in context.
In real life, I tend to repeat the same points over and over until I am sure my message's recipient knows what I mean. In writing, I am still wordy, but I can be more precise.
And I love "On Writing". I should read that again.
Deek - I've got a response all ready and typed up, but my scanner is offline due to computer movements and desk rearrangement and other slack causes. But I'll get something in to you soon!
And since I writing the response, I've already changed my mind about reasons and wherefores and might have to submit another ;-)
I could probably write a lengthy explanation of why I write. However, after a couple of years spent trying my hand at fiction, years' worth of journaling, and increasing amounts of letters written to people, I can sum up the interest by simply saying that I communicate better when I write things down. I might be at a loss for words in a conversation but usually, after having time to think a little, I have quite a lot to "say" on paper about many subjects. Writing feels satisfying in terms of explaning what I think or feel about a thing.
ReplyDeleteAs far as learning why others write, I appreciate this post and look forward to other responses. I enjoyed the sections of Stephen King's book "On Writing" that dealt with why he started and why he does it. (I enjoyed that book even more than I enjoyed the small amount of his of novels that I've read). I read a book of interviews with Don DeLillo, and I am just finishing up "The Diary of Anne Frank", in which she actually wrote quite a bit about her dreams of becoming a journalist and why she felt compelled to writing. I'd like to read more books on this subject.
-Justin
Thanks, Justin.
ReplyDeleteI'm quite the same way. In conversation, unless its a witty comeback, I'm usually 15-20 seconds slow on saying something worthwhile or even what I really mean to say. So writing allows me to write at my own pace and then better hone it after I read it back in context.
In real life, I tend to repeat the same points over and over until I am sure my message's recipient knows what I mean. In writing, I am still wordy, but I can be more precise.
And I love "On Writing". I should read that again.
Deek - I've got a response all ready and typed up, but my scanner is offline due to computer movements and desk rearrangement and other slack causes. But I'll get something in to you soon!
ReplyDeleteAnd since I writing the response, I've already changed my mind about reasons and wherefores and might have to submit another ;-)