Writing For The Soul Of It

Living Out Loud volume 29: On Writing

Writing is the axe that breaks the frozen sea within us. ~Frank Kafka

I almost continuously have a running dialogue going in my head…in some ways I consider it writing even if those words never hit the page. I often lack the courage to give those words a voice, and other times I might not be anywhere near pen and paper or computer. Many times these things hit me in the middle of the night, and I even visualize the words appearing on my keyboard though I never rise to do so. By morning I’ve forgotten the words, but sometimes I carry the basic sentiment into the light of day. This usually leads me to dig a bit deeper until I find some hidden truth . Other times it’s a catalyst that leads me on an unexpected journey. I find connections between objects and life that I never knew existed. When I am writing poetry the images and words rumble through my head, yet I feel them gnawing in the pit of my stomach. When I finally get where I’m going it’s as if I can physically feel it travel up through my chest and jump out onto the page. I experience both relief and elation.

Writing is a voyage of discovery. ~Nadine Gordimer

Writing has become a way of analyzing and reflecting on my life and choices. It has become a tool of healing. I’ve gone through periods of writing poetry, memoir, fiction, and essay. I must say that the most rewarding has been poetry and essay. Both have given me opportunities to explore. I’ve come to know and accept who I am. I’ve grown through this process.

The role of a writer is not to say what all can say but what we are unable to say. ~Anais Nin

I have only recently become comfortable having anyone I know read my work. There are still times I struggle with showing my words. I find when I put those risky words in public, I get the most resonance from readers. I think often writers hold back because they fear acceptance from others, and yet we find others are waiting for us to say what they can’t find the words or the courage to say. I am often connected to other writers through the emotions of their words. I am thankful to those writers who say the things I don’t know how.

You’re a writer and that’s something better than being a millionaire – because it is something holy. ~Harlan Ellison

My writing road is ever changing, from poetry and fiction to memoir and essay. I haven’t sent anything out for publication in probably eight months. I’d like to publish more, but it takes work to research venues and to put myself out there which takes away from writing time. When it comes right down to it, I’d rather be writing than publishing. The personal satisfaction from the written word far surpasses any notoriety I receive. Writing has helped me get in touch with my soul. Writing has been a sacred passage. I have learned how to live with both passion and compassion. Most importantly, I’ve found a world of inner peace I never knew existed…and you can’t put a price tag on that.

Writing isn’t about the destination – writing is the journey that transforms the soul and gives meaning to all else. ~Sue Grafton