Write Away

The Calling
by
William Adolphe Bouguereau

"What is the best way to write? Each of us has to discover her own way by writing. Writing teaches writing. No one can tell you your own secret."

Gail Sher: One Continuous Mistake.

Writers are naturally introspective. It's one of the qualities that makes us write. And it seems like we're forever searching for legitimacy. Quotes from the greatest authors show that having many publications and legions of readers is not enough to give lasting confidence. Even they wonder if they've fooled people into thinking they've got something of worth to offer.

So, the questions Marta posed on her blog actually prove her status. She asked, "Is a blogger a writer?" and "Does a real writer blog?" It's a great post, and the comments are insightful, too.

I don't think every blogger is a writer, and I don't think everything a writer writes is writing. The underlying question writers ask themselves, (and anyone who will read their work) is, "Am I a writer?" Deep down, I want someone to declare that it's permissible for me to take that lofty title.

It's doesn't work that way. When somebody says, "Wow, you're a great writer!" I question their opinion. Since everybody learns to write in kindergarten, it seems presumptuous to announce that I think I'm better at it than some. But just knowing how to talk doesn't make a person a speaker. I don't feel embarrassed saying to other people who can read that I'm a reader. I know how to run, but I'm not a runner. I have to declare myself: Because I express myself through writing, I'm a writer.

Writers don't always have readers. Before I had a blog, my only readers were people I knew well, the people I could actually hand my work to in person. I didn't have the money or the backing to publish or print anything in large numbers. Now I have readers. Although I still give my stuff away, my blog gives me a sensation of authenticity.

I started my blog mainly as a journal. Now I think of it as an essay, or an article. My blog predicament has become whether I blog for readers or for myself. If it's for readers I have to give myself the right to write.

I love to read the inner thoughts of a writer. That's the art form that resonates with me. It's the essence of communication. A personal, intimate post is my favorite kind of blog. The written word gives me the feeling that I'm entering somebody's heart and mind, connecting with a soul.

I blog the way I used to write in my journal. I mentally edited the things I wrote there, because I was always afraid I'd die unexpectedly. I didn't want anyone to have their feelings hurt just because I happened to rant the day before my demise. I kept my journal, imagining the people who would someday read it. It wasn't ever meant to be totally private. I'm an audience kind of writer. For me, writing doesn't feel complete unless someone reads it.

Why do you blog? Do you keep a journal as well? Do you write with readers in mind, or is your blog mostly for yourself? Do you care about getting new readers?

Visit Marta's post for added inspiration! And give yourself permission to be a writer.