Do writers write to be read, or because we have something to say?
That’s not a trick question. But it might be a two-edged
sword. Maybe we write for the sake of expression, but we surely appreciate
readers. And I think perhaps we write best when we believe someone will
actually read the words we produce.
But a real writer
will write anyway.
It’s like the orator who stands at the podium and speaks,
with or without an audience. Or the vlogger, who posts an extra informative
video online, not knowing if anyone will tune in his time. Or the singer, who
belts out a big song whether anyone is listening or not.
If an owl hoots in
the forest, but no one hears it, is he any less of an owl?
But isn’t the speaker, vlogger, or singer invigorated by interacting
with the crowd?
I know I am energized and inspired when people post engaging
comments on articles I've published or features bearing my by-line. My writing mojo improves when readers publish
pertinent (especially positive) reviews of my books.
Readership is worth a
lot.
(If you’re reading, I hope you can feel the love, right
about now.)
Book sales, subscriptions, page views and ad clicks help to
pay our bills. But if readership is the only reason we write, we might be
missing something.
Are you disappointed by the number of page-loads one of your
blog posts has received? Wondering why the shares/pass-alongs aren’t where you
want them to be?
Stay strong,
wordsmith.
Write on. It’s more about the writing than the numbers. Your
authentic and creative expression count more than readership statistics. Those will
come. And sometimes they will surprise us. Often, my most-read pieces are not
my personal favorites. But perhaps those
words spoke to readers more than I’d expected them to do.
Image/s:
Adapted by this user
from public domain
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