At every point in history and most certainly
in the current economic climate authors have faced answering this
question. Since writing is not an
occupation usually sought out for its monetary rewards, delving into the depths
of an answer often results in vague and unhelpful explanations such as: ‘I just
have to’ or ‘I do it because I love it’.
In an attempt to avoid this dead-end response I will analyse and then
add a personal twist to why I conduct this activity despite the numerous other
demands in my life.
Writing is a solitary activity yet the process
by which any composition comes into being requires an understanding of human
social nature. Writing is a form of
communication which, by its definition, is the transition of information from
one being to another. Given this fact
it’s no surprise that authors generally want to be read by others. What starts as pure personal enjoyment of and
fascination with ideas, characters, and circumstances slowly branches out to
demand interaction with other minds. The
desire and ability to communicate complex messages and concepts is one of the
key aspects that define humans as an advanced species. What began as a solely oral medium evolved
into a longer-lasting record of human thoughts and realities, first through art
and then written language.
The passing on of knowledge gathered over one
or many lifetimes makes up the realm of nonfiction, a genre valued for its
practical implications in our material world.
Storytelling, by contrast, has become a genre of entertainment to be
indulged in for escape rather than higher contemplation. While practical knowledge definitely has its
value in the exploration of this Earthly existence I believe very strongly that
fiction is as important and educational a genre as its purportedly ‘true’
counterpart.
“Of course she does,” you may say, “she writes
it.” But hear me out.
Storytelling is perhaps the most accessible
means of communicating truths and lessons.
While a lecture will only stay with its listener in bits and pieces a
story can capture and become imprinted on the mind in far less time. Such accessibility encourages active
engagement with a wide variety of subjects in a sphere that lacks the
threatening aspect of being based in real life.
Nonfiction can foster such interactions but the multicultural and
multi-generational audience for stories make them a powerful medium for critical
and creative exploration. In a world
where the creation and dissemination of information is proposed as the new
economic frontier, a wide variety of arts but perhaps particularly writing has
the ability to spread, build and challenge the human species.
Critical thinking and problem solving are two
essential aspects of human interactions in every context but the democratic process
is perhaps the most obvious example. Exposure
to different cultures in relate-able contexts leads to increased empathy which,
in turn, can result in greater acceptance of diversity and more well-rounded
citizens. Stories introduce readers to
such differences in safe environments, sowing the seeds of understanding and
open-mindedness. Reading preference and
choice can, of course, influence the extent of such positive results. Books that people read because they are
‘easy’ or ‘light’ can serve the same functions but at less intense levels. I choose to write in the genre of fantasy
because it provides me with limitless possible avenues to explore the topics
and characters that interest me.
Although readers may have preconceptions about what they enjoy reading
the truth is that stories can appeal to a wide variety of individuals no matter
the genre. Some might say they love
mystery and hate science fiction or hate romance and love fantasy but,
ultimately, it is the storytelling style more than the genre that determines a
good book for readers. According to
Joyce Saricks’ Appeal Factors, readers usually read for Character, Pacing,
Language, or Story. As a reader and
author I focus on Characters and Story.
Ultimately, no matter why you may like a
certain style of book, all literature expands the perspectives of those who
read them while also providing a source of inspiring and genuinely pleasing
entertainment. To explore the myriad of
themes and circumstances that interest me and to (hopefully) provide enjoyment
and inspiration to others is why I write.
The ability to sustain myself on a monetary front would simply be an
added bonus.
I hope whoever reads this will find it
informative and perhaps even a little interesting. I will try to update with a post every two
weeks but, seeing as writing is not my main source of income, life may dictate
otherwise. The next update will include some
details and links to my original works.
Until we meet again.
