Journal | So, Why Write?

TO THOSE who wish to write?

See within you the ability to write; do not be downhearted if things don't go according to plan at the first instance; writing is long and arduous and must be developed, just as an artist must spend years mastering the canvas and the palette; nor be disheartened when your writing is rejected or, perhaps worse, your book is returned with a ventriloquist's smile, "I really won't have time to read this." 

Simply, write for personal enjoyment, with no thought of publishers and agents.

If it is meant for the wider public, then it will happen, as surely as day follows night.

Sometimes, I find this hard to accept. But reading Simon Callow’s biography of Charles Dickens (1812-1870) - Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World [ii] has brought this well and truly into perspective.

Dickens is a truly household name. He was in his lifetime, too. Likewise, all of his works. But what surprised me was that even Dickens had a quite stormy relationship with publishers and fought against deadlines his entire life, even at the height of his success.

I think, that William Shakespeare (1564-1616) would have said exactly the same about his experience.

So take heart. And always keep that special place, that bottom drawer, that briefcase from earlier times, for your original manuscripts. Believe me, there is something almost mystical when you look through them. A great sense of pride and personal achievement covers you. And it is your right to feel this.

27 November 2020
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© Kenneth Thomas Webb 2022

[i] The striking banner image is by Andrew Neel through Unsplash.

[ii] published by Harper Press 2012