(first published in Potluck Children's Literary Magazine, March–May 2004)
Why Do You Write? by Donna Marie Merritt
Why do you write? Is it for someone else Or something just for you?
Why do you write? Is it to share what's inside Or to make your deepest dream come true?
Do you know why you write? Do you know why you write your poem or your story or why you keep a diary? Maybe you do. Maybe you have a clear vision of what you're doing and why. But me (an "old" lady who's been writing since first grade)—I'm just beginning to figure out why we write. We write...
To capture a moment. Something has happened that made you see things in a new way. Writers have a way of looking at the world that, often, others miss. Writers can open up the minds and hearts of others to help them think about things in a different way.
To make your feelings known. When an event makes you unbelievably happy, you want to write it down! When sadness overwhelms you, writing can help you work through your grief. When you are confused, putting your confusion on paper can actually help you sort it out and understand something a bit better.
To share an experience. When you have done something or lived through something memorable or unique, others may be interested in reading about it. It may inspire them to try what they had previously thought impossible.
To create. Ahhhh...the sense of accomplishment after you have found just the right word or ended your story just the way you had in mind. It's a marvelous feeling to nurture your writing ability by crafting a new piece.
To stir awareness. To change an injustice. When you discover a situation in which others are being treated unfairly or denied rights they should have, speak up through your writing. The written word is a powerful tool. Used with care, words can get people thinking about how to change our world—or your neighborhood. For instance, Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe started people thinking about the evil of slavery.
Because you have to. That's another reason. Ever feel like you just HAVE to write something? Then do it. Listen to your heart.
A school assignment. Oh, no! Write for school? But that's not creative...But, oh yes, it is! Take whatever you're given and make it your own by doing your best. Everything you write gives you the chance to become a better writer if you let it.
To be published. Whether you want to see your name in Potluck or another magazine or book, being published is a goal of many writers. It is awesome to think of your work out there for other people to read! Be careful, though. A writer whose only goal is to be published is often disappointed. Over the years, I have probably accumulated enough rejection slips to wallpaper a house! If I wrote only to be published, I would have stopped long ago. No, a writer writes for more than a byline (your name under the title of your work). Being published is a fabulous benefit of writing, no doubt. Just make sure it's not your only reason.
And what is your reason? Is it one (or more) of those listed above? Is your writing motivated by something else? Why do you write? A great creative exercise is to ask yourself that and write about it. Your answer may give you a sense of direction as you continue your writing journey. Enjoy the trip!
