Confessions of an Amateur Writer

Writing is an intimate form of communication, a revealing of the writer's soul for judgment by a reader. A writer is an artist, painting vast landscapes and moving mountains with just words.

Imagine the challenge of a writer. It begins with abstract ideas, floating thoughts, and then he has to weave them into a cohesive narrative that draws the reader in. Every writer has a style, a unique voice that complements their narrative. It's like their signature, distinct and original.

Yet, as different as writing styles can be, all writers grapple with the same duality. Writing is both pain and joy, a cathartic experience and a test of endurance. It's a dance on a spectrum where the writer and reader stand at opposite ends. While a writer crafts with words, it's the reader's mind that completes the canvas, painting stories from the words read. The terminology and phrasing the writer chooses are his tools, meant to invoke feelings, to paint pictures.

There are countless writings out there. Some are forgettable, some are readable but not particularly impactful, and then there are those few pieces that resonate so deeply with the reader, they wish it would never end.

One essential truth remains: the strength of writing lies in word choice. This choice determines if a narrative thrives or languishes. For a writer to truly understand the art of writing, he must first immerse himself in reading. This is how he learns patterns, nuances, and the rhythm of good writing.

Unlike verbal communication, where politeness or obligation might keep an audience listening, written communication gives the reader full control. They can disengage at any point, so it's a writer's responsibility to keep them engrossed. If a reader walks away, it speaks to the narrative's strength or lack thereof.

A writer should be his harshest critic, reading his own work with fresh eyes, as if someone else wrote it. He must be honest with himself about its quality and impact. After all, as Mortimer Adler wisely said, "The person who says he knows what he thinks but cannot express it usually does not know what he thinks."

Writing is similar to a screenplay in a movie. It's about the flow, pacing, and word choice. Take, for example, the difference between "Cat woke up. Cat ate food. Cat went to sleep," and "Cat woke up, ate food, and went to sleep." The former is monotonous, while the latter has rhythm. This distinction is what keeps readers engaged.

The beauty and terror of writing lie in its vulnerability. The writer puts out a piece knowing that a reader can disengage anytime. Unlike face-to-face conversations or videos where tone, body language, and facial expressions add depth, writing relies solely on words. It's a daunting task but one that offers unparalleled rewards.

Ernest Hemingway's advice, "write drunk, edit sober," resonates with many. It suggests that the raw, uninhibited passion of writing emerges when defenses are down. But, it's in the editing, the refining, where true craftsmanship shines.

To all my fellow writers, keep shaping, keep refining, and keep sharing your soul. The world needs your stories.