REBLOG: WITH A RESPONSE TO THE POST

Why Do You Write?

I was overvisiting Anita’s blog, catching up on my reading. I’m so far behind. I came across two of her posts concerning writing. This particular blog post struck a nerve. I’ve been considering retiring from the workforce and packing up my truck, camera, cat, and grandson to shoot some pictures. Though photography is a favorite hobby, I’ve considered doing more with it.

Despite the joy I receive from on-the-road shooting pictures, photography alone doesn’t do it for me. I need to write every day. I don’t have any control over this compulsion. I’m a slave to it, so to speak. I had a pen in my hand long before I had a camera. However, I have discussed my feelings about writing. I can’t say for sure if I discussed why I write clearly.

I can’t point to one reason for writing simply. However, I think I can describe what happens when I write. When it come to writing, I used to confess the echoes of madness from the crevasses of my mind. It tames my demons. It’s like I feel them settling down in front of the fireplace with a cup of tea and opening to the page of the current book they are reading. Yes, of course, my demons read. I don’t particularly care for their favorite genres, but we make work.

Writing is how I clear the thoughts whispered to me throughout the day. I can relax. I can feel like a regular person, even if it’s only until I finish a chapter. I have to tell stories, or I’ll lose my mind. It’s my way of separating the negative thoughts from the positive ones. I understand the necessity of the existence of both. Writing is how I attempt to find the balance I so desperately need.