Why I Write

     I talked a lot in my post, Mid-Life Author, about lost dreams. I even mentioned that becoming an author was a major item on my list. However, I didn’t explain how it got there. Why do I want to become an author? Why not a dancer, or a singer, or a nuclear physicist? I’ve spent the last week pondering this. Why do I feel a need to do this thing and not another? 

     I think I’ve identified a few things about my personality that draw me to writing. If you’re thinking of chasing this dream, and you’re wondering if it’s the path for you, maybe you’ll see some similarities. 

Reading Was My Refuge

     I think the biggest reason I write is because of the role reading played in my life. Reading was as necessary as breathing. It was my refuge, my escape, my safe harbor. 

     I grew up in a family of overachievers. Everyone around me was smart, motivated, and outgoing. It put a lot of pressure on me, an introvert, to succeed. I was always anxious that I was falling short of expectations. Looking back, I know they loved me deeply. However, in my teenage mind, I formed the wrong conclusion that failure would lead to a loss of love. It caused a lot of unnecessary pressure.

     Once, while visiting my grandmother, I noticed a box of books. She didn’t want them anymore and gave them to me. I picked one at random to read. It was an old Harlequin romance novel. I was probably a little young to be reading it, but I’m so happy I did. I consumed the entire box of books and then ran to the library for more. 

     The moment I opened a book, the pressure and tension melted away. I could forget whatever thing I had been worrying about. It worked better than any anxiety medicine I could have taken. Checking out for a while with a book was my therapy.  

I loved everything about writing

     For as long as I can remember, everything about writing fascinated me. Even before I became an avid reader, I would obsess over pens, pencils, and erasers. I would lovingly run the point of a pencil over the paper to watch the graphite leave its dark trail. I would type words on the typewriter keyboard just to hear the click-clacking of the keys. 

     My BFF would often pass me one sentence notes in class. I would pull out the perfect piece of paper, taking the time to ensure there were no ragged edges. Then I would open my pencil case to select the perfect writing instrument.

After careful deliberation, I would answer with such passion. I’d finish by folding the sheets into the acceptable delivery format and then cover the outside with stickers. I would send my note off with a feeling of deep satisfaction, knowing she’d feel so special. Then, ultimately, it would confuse me when my BFF would lean over and ask exasperated, “I just wondered if you were going to the game? Yes or no?”

I’m an introvert

     Introverts are under-appreciated. Many people hear the word “introvert” and think “shy.” This is a misconception. I find peace in solitude. I’m often quiet, but that isn’t the same thing as shy. 

     As an introvert, I listen and observe long before I speak. I think that helps in creative areas like art, music, and of course, writing. It aids with everything from world building to describing movement and emotion. I’m observant, and I think that will allow me to build the type of story that sucks a person out of their world and into mine. It makes it easier to paint the picture so that everyone can see it clearly. 

I Constantly Think in “Stories”

     All I know is my way of thinking. I don’t know how it is for others. Maybe everyone does this.

     If I don’t have a book to read, I sink into stories inside my head. It’s like a type of fog lowers around me. I start imagining characters. It’s usually a scene that plays over and over in my head. I can spend large blocks of time thinking over the same scene. I don’t know where it comes from or why I even start thinking about it. It usually takes an outside force to pull me back into the real world. I guess I would call it daydreaming. I don’t daydream about actual people, though. I imagine made-up people doing made-up things.

 

That’s Why Writing is For Me

     My love of reading, my obsession with all things writing, my introverted tendencies, and constant daydreaming are the reasons I write.

     My love of reading helps me understand the immense responsibility that comes with putting words on paper. I know what it will mean to the people reading it.

     My obsession with all the parts of writing will only help ensure I enjoy the process.

     Being an introvert will help me with fleshing out stories rich with details.

     And the constant daydreaming will hopefully help me not be short of ideas.

     I don’t think you need all these traits to be an excellent writer. I just think if you have them, and you were thinking of pursuing writing as a career, they’ll  be helpful. It’s why I write. What about you? Do you feel a driving need to do something? Try thinking about the traits you have that might help you accomplish it. Want help? Ask people who know you well or comment below for suggestions.