Write What Makes You Happy & Let Others Write What Makes Them Happy

Once, on social media, I read comments between two authors who mocked Hallmark Christmas movies, and they laughed over the idea of them writing stories like that. One writer responded, “Shoot me now.” The other asked a moral quandary question that went like this: “Would you write those cheesy stories if you knew you’d be able to support your family?” The one who asked added that she would because she’s a “sellout.”

That conversation, which I did not get involved in, stuck with me.

Dialogue like that, in public settings, can put other writers down. Someone who writes sweet romances with Hallmark-like vibes may have seen that and felt ridiculed for writing stories that make them happy, and also uplifts the spirits of so many people.

Writing “cheesy stories,” Hallmark-esque stories, sweet romances, romantic-comedies is NOT selling out. 

Nor is writing erotica, a genre that has becoming increasing popular over the years.

What we write is personal. It’s a decision.

No one has the right to make the decision for anyone else what genres and types of stories are worthy of being written. We all get to make that decision for ourselves.

One writer may not like science fiction. One may not enjoy horror. Another may not like romance of any subgenre.

That’s fine. As long as you don’t claim that certain genres are more superior than others. Or certain genres are crap.

Every genre has a purpose. Fantasy. Sweet romance. True crime. Erotica. Just because it may not be your cup of tea doesn’t mean it’s any less.

Writing a Hallmark-inspired story isn’t selling out if it’s truly what you want to do. 

Neither is writing erotica.

Both ends of the romance spectrum exist for a reason. 

As long as you’re staying true to yourself and your creativity, don’t let anyone make you feel bad for the stories you write.

QUESTION: What do you write that makes you happy and you won't let anyone stop you from writing it NO MATTER WHAT THE HELL THEY SAY ABOUT IT?