The writer stares at a blank page or a blinking cursor. The empty space is begging to be filled. The author is compelled to fill the void. In a world where the written word seems to be losing its value (I do not believe this), the question that occurs is why do do I write? There are many reasons, but in the following paragraphs I will enumerate three.
Writing is Cathartic
There is something cleansing about taking the thoughts that fill my heart and brain and sorting them out on paper. There are times when the spoken word is insufficient if there is no one listening. The paper becomes a willing partner to purge or process those thoughts.
The Paper Never Misunderstands
Unlike oral communication, the paper always understands. I realize that it is possible to push the metaphor too far. One’s readers can certainly experience confusion because of what one writes, but paper is a non active partner that always comprehends the author’s thoughts and intents.
The Paper is an Outlet for Creative Energy
In much the same way that physical education is an outlet for pent up energy in a school classroom, so too is a pen and paper an avenue of creative expression for the writer. To not express one’s self through the written word for can cause frustration and confusion that affects other areas of one’s life.
Why do you write?
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