What does it Feel Like to Write?

I’m asked this question quite a bit by family and friends. Really, I must say it is a plethora of feelings. I used to think that anyone could be a writer. I now revise that slightly to say that anybody who wants to be a writer can be one. That want is necessary because it takes a lot of work and commitment but most importantly and what makes writers truly stand apart is a different sort of mindset.

To me, writing functions very much like a drug. If I don’t write, the words, conversations and scenes of my characters literally haunt my mind. They seep into my everyday life and it’s as if they push and push until you get their story down on paper. For those of you who have kids, it’s like when your kids cry and whine to get their way, only it is really difficult to reason with imaginary characters—even more so then reasoning with tiny tots! I don’t necessarily believe that everyone has this urge to write these stories down and that in itself may be a defining characteristic of writers.

Once you write the story your characters are bothering you to write it is this great sense of accomplishment, but it doesn’t stop there and this is probably the most exciting thing about the writing process. Each step is a tiny accomplishment in itself. The first draft, the rewriting, the sending it to agents or editors, the query, the synopsis. Each part we writers finish is a goal or a rung up on the ladder. For me, I equate this with the adrenaline rushes of adventure junkies. Yeah, I know jumping out of a plane is a bit different then finishing a first draft (I’ve done both), but there is still this amazing sense of accomplishment and excitement in each. But writing isn’t all highs. There are definitely moments of rejection, criticism and doubt that pull us down. It can be a bit of a rollercoaster at times but for those who love the craft, the good usually outweighs the bad.

And so there you have it. Writing is a rollercoaster of emotions but if you love it enough, you’ll enjoy the ride. Now, back to that laptop and may this week be a productive one for you all.

 

Filed under: Characters, Toni Kelly, Writer's Life