Why?
When I started to get serious about writing, I took a
creative writing class at the local college. Part of the class was devoted to a
workshop, where each student could bring in a part of something they were
working on. There was a five page limit, so we wouldn’t have to listen to
someone trying to revise “War and Peace”.
The intent was to let the author read his work aloud and then get
constructive feedback. I found it to be very helpful.
Over the years, I’ve participated in various groups of writers
who also wanted to workshop. Some have been very helpful, others, not so
much. Yesterday I was with a new group
when one of the guys asked “Why do you write?”
Before snapping off a quick retort, I gave it some
thought. Here’s what I said. “I write
because I need to. I like to think I’m pretty good at telling stories. It’s a
chance for a reader to escape, to be entertained by the exploits of my
characters. Whenever I get feedback from someone who says they enjoyed what I’ve
written, there’s gratification for all my hard work. Writing fiction can also
be godlike. You get to create the characters, the situations, guide the actions
and rule the outcome. It’s your world that they inhabit and for the most part,
the characters will do what you want them to do.”
Now most authors will admit to dreaming about being on the
bestseller’s list, earning millions in royalties and having their stories
turned into movies. Some will achieve the dream. Others will forever chase it.
But that’s part of life. We all need to pursue our dreams. Writing mysteries
and having them published is one of mine. What’s yours?