Many people ponder the meaning of life and their purpose on earth at least once in their lifetime. Writers also find themselves contemplating why they should write. Whether you have engaged in this reflection or are just a reader, keep reading. No promises, but you might end up finding the answers to grave questions like “Why Should You Write?” or “Why You Should Start Writing?”
Thinking Versus Writing
I recently came across one of those posts on social media. That hooks you in the first line and promises life-changing wisdom in seconds. The post had various pictorials explaining philosophical concepts. Well, they weren’t life-changing but they were intriguing and thought-provoking for sure. Nothing, that we don’t know already, yet these can be worthy reminders.
One picture explained the difference between writing and thinking. Thinking was depicted as collecting water in cupped hands as the water kept splashing and spilling. In Contrast, writing was shown as water being stored in a glass. Pictures are indeed worth a thousand words. Is that good for someone who loves writing or wants to write? Isn’t becoming a photographer or artist who can draw effectively better than being a writer? In a time when everyone is busy watching 10-second, 5-second, or even 1-second videos (the latest trend I noticed). What is the point of thudding the keypads of your laptops or computers?
The problem with every creative mind is that it quickly takes off and in no time starts flying amidst clouds of thoughts. If, the clouds are dark, heavy, and ready to burst with thunders of doubts. Turbulence is imminent. ~ Gaurav Sinha
Writer’s Block and Dilemmas’
Apart from writer’s block or pangs of boredom, which are common and natural. Many villains keep popping up in our imaginations. The latest one is Artificial Intelligence (AI). How should a writer feel when they hear stories of story writers participating in a contest of writing AI prompts that create – let’s say, 3 short stories in 3 seconds?
The problem with every creative mind is that it quickly takes off and in no time starts flying amidst clouds of thoughts. If, the clouds are dark, heavy, and ready to burst with thunders of doubts. Turbulence is imminent. (I’m already feeling on cloud nine with this analogy. That’s one reason, why you SHOULD write)
Artificial Intelligence shouldn’t make humans feel stupid.
Artificial Intelligence: A Tool or a Threat?
Coming back to AI, the chatbots are also generating pictures and illustrations in no time. So, shall the Artists stop painting? Photographers sell their cameras to scrap dealers? How adversely AI may impact us is beyond our control. Hence, we must remember it’s going to be a tool for us. And eventually, we will be the ones using it, not the other way around.
Instead of writing stories by giving them prompts. It is better to get ideas of what should we write about, and use them for research. Something we have been doing with Google and YouTube.
Still not convinced why you should start writing? Let me sprinkle the spice of spirituality and the power of philosophy in the realm of writing.
The Real Purpose of Writing
Each one of us is born with inherent gifts. We must accept them and use them for the greatest cause ever – To express ourselves. If the gift happens to be a natural flair for weaving words that engage others by making them think and eventually feel inspired. Then, this gift becomes even more powerful. As Voltaire and Uncle Ben have said “With great power comes great responsibility”
I can see, that spark in your eyes, you are eager to finish this piece and start writing as soon as you can. But I’m not done yet. Let’s cover a couple of crucial points before you stop reading and start drumming the keypads of your laptop, computer, or smartphone. (Best, if your handwriting is still readable and you use a pen)
There’s a common misconception, that you must have enough ideas before you write. However, the truth is the only thing you need to do is sit down, cut away distractions, and start writing. Once you do. You will be amazed how the clouds of thoughts, start washing away and turn into glowing light of clarity. Soon the problem of scarcity will turn into a problem of plenty. You will need to cut down the unnecessary clutter to make your write-up effective.
Storytelling is a life skill – Stories must be told and shared!
The Benefits of Writing
The human mind is trained to place more importance on tangibility (Remember, Seeing is believing). The visual representation of thinking versus writing we discussed earlier is so apt. Once you sit down to write. All your thoughts, and ideas, good and not-so-good experiences become tangible. You automatically feel you have achieved something. It not only makes you feel better, it transforms you. You are no longer the same person; you have learned something new and upgraded to the next version.
If you reach readers who learn from your writing. Get motivated to kick-start what they have been holding on to. That’s a bonus, the Icing on the cake. Cherry on the cake, sone pe suhaaga (or whichever phrase you prefer). This is why you should write… This is why everyone who knows how to write, must write.
…the only thing you need to do is sit down, cut away distractions, and start writing.
What Makes Writing Good?
Lastly, Let’s not focus too much on being perfect, following rules, structure, and grammar. Thinking too much about technicalities acts as a speed-breaker. When you are already on a bumpy road, you don’t want to add more restrictions. These things are important but not the ultimate truth. Best things happen in flow… and writing is no exception. You must stick to your style, and learn the rules so you can slice them with finesse. Okay time to cut the clutter, over to you. Happy writing and thanks for your time!
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