I'm starting today by quoting Joss Whedon because in the words' of Captain Malcolm Reynolds, "He's my hero." Okay, so that is two quotes. All kidding aside, this quote speaks about us all. From the aspiring novelist, the short story expert, to the NY Times Bestseller, each of us have a fire in our bellies that keep our butt in a chair and write. It doesn't matter if we write to make money or for our mothers. We need to do this.
In school we learn the difference between wants versus needs. We need food. We want that big house on a hill with a pool. Writing for me is a need. When their is a lag or I procrastinate I get cranky. An uneasiness creeps in. A hunger builds inside until I cannot contain my self-control any longer. I grab the nearest writing utensil, a piece of paper, use the memo app on my phone, and I write something, anything.
Passion not only drives us, but consumes our characters, as well. It compels a gumshoe to sniff out a murderer. Forces the starship captain to pushes their crew, putting lives in danger to discover the wonders of the universe. Drives two star-crossed loves to do the unspeakable. Don't even get me going on Captain Ahab.
As an author I need to write. As a reader I want to embrace the character's soul. Let their passion not only fuel their quest, but push the protagonist to experience the ups and downs we put them through. Our job is to combine our need with the reader's want. Find the place where the character's passion, expressed through great deeds and even larger mishaps, and your own vigor, which comes out in carefully chosen proses, collide. If done properly the two will meld with seemingly effortless ease, and everyone reaches 'The End' satisfied.
What drives you? Please feel free to leave a comment. It doesn't even have to be about writing. What do you strive to achieve?
That's really insightful. Thanks for posting this.
ReplyDeleteYou are most welcome. I'm glad you were able to take something from this post.
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