Why Authorship Transcends Readership: The Courage to Tell a Story

It is a common myth that writers struggle because they cannot assume their work will be widely read. However, the real reason many continue to write, regardless of audience size, is rooted in the sheer joy and courage of storytelling. Writing a novel is not just about creating something for readers; it is about the personal satisfaction of expressing oneself and dealing with the known and unknown fears that come with sharing one's voice.

Writing as Self-Expression

The act of writing a novel often stems from a deep-seated desire to tell a story. The initial intent of the author may not necessarily be to achieve commercial success or massive readership. Instead, the motivation is often personal. A writer starts with a thought, an emotion, or a desire to share an experience, belief, or even a critique of society. This personal fire fuels the creation, regardless of whether the work resonates with the general audience.

The Perfection Paradox

Writers often encounter the trap of perfection paralysis, where the fear of imperfection leads to delays and inaction. This phenomenon is not unique to writing; many creative endeavors suffer from this same conundrum. However, many choose to push through the fear because of the relief that comes from finally completing a work. The mere act of creation is a triumph in itself, and the satisfaction of bringing a story to life cannot be underestimated.

The Importance of Writing About What You Care About

In my own experience, writing a novel is about finding a cause that resonates deeply with the author. For instance, when I embarked on writing 'Outcasts of Skagaray,' it was driven by my passion for addressing the issue of abandoned and unwanted children. I felt compelled to share this story, even if it might not reach a broad audience. The story of what could have turned out horrifically was avoided, and this sense of fulfillment is what propels many writers to share their work.

Stories That Change Lives

Writers like Anna Sewell and Harriet Beecher Stowe exemplify the profound impact that writing can have. Anna Sewell, inspired by witnessing a mistreated horse, wrote 'Black Beauty' to raise awareness about animal welfare. Similarly, Harriet Beecher Stowe's 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' was a passionate call to action against slavery. Both works were born out of strong personal convictions and have had lasting impacts on society. While these authors may not have expected their books to reach the heights they did, their intent was clear: to create change through storytelling.

Market vs. Conviction

Writing for a large market often demands a certain level of marketability and can sometimes lack the authenticity that comes from genuine conviction. Writing purely for sellable content can feel hollow and uninspired. When the focus shifts from personal expression to commercial success, the writing risks becoming generic or overly formulaic. Conversely, when writers pour their hearts and souls into their work, the story becomes rich with depth and emotion, making connections with readers on a deeper level.

Conclusion

In conclusion, people write novels not just to satisfy a potential readership, but to tackle themes and stories that matter deeply to them. The act of writing is a personal and transformative journey, often leading to a heightened sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Whether or not the work gains widespread recognition is secondary to the importance of the message and the storytelling itself. For those who have stories to tell, the journey of writing is never in vain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do writers often struggle with perfection paralysis?
A: Many writers fear that their work is not good enough and this fear can lead to postponing the writing process. The fear of imperfection can be daunting, but it is often just a barrier to accomplishment.

Q: Can writing purely for personal expression lack commercial appeal?
A: While writing to sell to a market can provide commercial success, writing from a place of personal expression can still attract audiences who value authenticity and depth. Success does not always correlate with market trends but rather with the authenticity and emotional resonance of the work.