To have a blog or write books requires arrogance. You have to believe you’ve got something to say that is worth someone spending their precious time reading. You have to feel that you can express it better than other people so that your writing is worthy of attention.
A writer has to know the mechanics of their craft – the spelling and grammar that are the nuts and bolts – the structure to create pace and interest – the subject matter that is the substance.
It is a similar arrogance to that of taking the stage for a performance.
Yet, like most performers, a writer’s arrogance is an over-inflated balloon. It is insubstantial and easy to pop. They are really frail and sensitive, requiring lots of praise in order to keep going and are so easy to deflate with criticism.
I am a writer. I put my ideas, thoughts and vision out there in blogs, books, poems, stories and even songs. I am never short of passion, ideas or views. My imagination is constantly churning and I enjoy writing more than I enjoy reading: and I enjoy reading lots.
For the most part I am happy to keep writing the things that engage my mind. I do not concern myself too much with the criticism or praise. I am content to write what comes into my head and enjoy doing it. I am an idealist. I am not writing for wealth and fame, though I would love to have an audience, praise and response. I need to say things and make a difference.
As a writer sometimes you are on a high, you have written something you are proud of, it expresses your feelings and people respond. It buoys you up with euphoria. You can do no wrong. It is all worthwhile.
At other times your words come back at you. They stink. You notice the spellos, the grammar and the poor structure and you despair. How could I write so poorly?
Often it is the little things that catch you out. The comment from left-side that either makes your day or shoots you down. It doesn’t take much.
A new positive zeitgeist: that’s why I do it. My words are passion from the heart. They’re all I’ve got. I try to ensure they hit the target.
You put it out there. You write.