Why Do You Write?

I suppose the answer to the question could feel self-explanatory, and for some, that’s not only fair but also glorious. But for most of us, the answer shouldn’t be one universal truth, for there are many reasons why we’ve chosen the path we’re on. But just in case you haven’t ever asked yourself the deceptively simple question, it’s one that I highly recommend. In fact, I can’t recommend it enough, because discovering your personal reason(s) could be essential to unlocking your potential.

Even if the answer does seem superficial or obvious, the truths might just surprise you, as it certainly did me. The thought hadn’t even occurred to me for the longest time—it took years. Yet, when I finally sat down and earnestly thought about it, the reasons felt liberating.

 First and foremost, I write because it is fun and because it brings me more joy than anything in the world. And I write for the sake of simply creating, for myself as well as others. The arts are a gift, and now more than ever, the world needs creatives: painters, sculptors, writers, musicians, pottery makers, the list goes on. I also write in order to know myself and the world a little better, and so my readers might get a sense of the person I am, too. That’s part of why I’m passionate about the Substack community and my weekly posts— I want to know you, and I hope you want to get to know me, as well.

 Years ago, in an interview with Stephen King, the Maine native basically said the reason he writes is to understand why people do the things they do. The logic is sane, and thankfully, I’ve never forgotten it. That’s how deeply his words resonated. In the same interview, I believe he used certain heinous actions as prime examples. After all, how can you hope to understand what drives a serial killer to fixate on their victims and eventually take their lives? Or why child molesters and rapists commit do the terrible things they do?

In On Writing, King had the following to say:

“Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life, as well.”

  I suppose there are other driving forces behind my overwhelming desire to write (as I’m sure there are a myriad of reasons for everyone,) but deep down in my gut, I write because I have to. In the simplest of terms, writing isn’t just a hobby or even a compulsion. I do it out of necessity for my mental health. Lastly, writing is cathartic. It’s my personal therapy. You know, the kind of therapy that I actually enjoy going to.

 Why do you write?