However, we do it because we love it. Don't we? And yes, with that comes wanting to feel that the scene is the best that it can be and that the characters are being done justice and that the paper matches what's in your head. That the story might be able to 'get out there' and be enjoyed by others and how long will it take you to get there etc etc.
I went to a 100th birthday party this week. The man in question spoke about how he started painting at school, and it's a hobby which carried him his entire life. He's sold paintings and had them displayed, but it has mostly been an interest - a LOVE. He is lucky enough to be fit enough that 2 weeks ago (at 99 and 50 weeks old) he was finishing a painting. I was awed by that, and humbled.
Dammit we may not all live to 100 and be fit enough, but the point of a hobby that lasts your lifetime and that you still get enjoyment from is a key one. I hope that I'm still making up stories in my head and inventing characters throughout my life. I hope I never lose that love.
So let's not be insecure about it. Let's remember that we love it, first and foremost.
Well said Vik!
ReplyDeleteIf a 100 year old can do it, then there's no excuse for us "spring chickens"!
Such wise words, it is so easy to get caught up in everything that surrounds writing that we forget why we started in the first place. 100 years old and still painting, that is an outstanding achievement.
ReplyDeleteThis is very important. Remembering why we write. I think we do lose sight of it sometimes so thanks for the reminder.
ReplyDeleteThat is impressive! Good for him.
ReplyDeleteIf a passion is to last a lifetime, then music comes in even higher than writing for me.
I totally agree, I sometimes have to remind myself that I write because I couldn't imagine living without writing, not other reasons. As long as we're making ourselves happy, that's all that matters :)
ReplyDeleteI firmly believe longevity is tied to being happy with what we do. I'm back from my break, which didn't last long enough, but I have to say I've missed connecting with the bloggers. They make me happy, too!
ReplyDeleteWonderfully said! We picked writing because we love creating stories - I hope I never lose that love! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat post! When caught up in dreams of publication, it's easy to forget the joy in the writing process itself. :)
ReplyDeleteFantastic reminder, Vikki! That man is nothing short but inspiring :)
ReplyDeleteGood post. Great words. Making up stories will probably keep us young!
ReplyDeleteSpot on. Soooooo spot on. Thanks for this, Vik. A perfect reminder. As writers, we do tend to get our priorities out of line. But this says it all. :)
ReplyDeleteYes. I write because I love.
ReplyDeleteSo happy that you had such nice things to celebrate! That's an amazing story about the 100 year old man still pursuing his passion! Happy weekend, everyone!
ReplyDeleteMichelle - definitely no excuse ;)
ReplyDeleteSuzanne - I am trying to remember why I started to start with ;)
Quanie Miller - thank you for commenting.
Alex J. Cavanaugh - you are v. lucky to have 2 passions!
Laura - exactly!
cleemckenziebooks - connecting with people makes me happy too!
Krista McLaughlin - me too!
Emma Adams - it can be!
S.K. Anthony - :)
Wendy Tyler Ryan - I hope so!
Morgan - thank you so
Melanie Schulz - :)
Deanie Humphrys-Dunne - thank you!
Well said, Vik. You get all caught up of chasing the dream, but you forget it is a passion. Keeping and maintaining that love for writing is difficult and remembering WHY you love it so much is key.
ReplyDeleteI write and review movies because I love it. I will NEVER give up the love, devotion, and passion for it. :)
Yours is the 2nd post ive read today (for IWSG) that has reminded me that i LOVE writing, and that i shouldnt get so caught up in all the other stuff. Thanks honey :)
ReplyDeletexx
Livia - & movies are something you can enjoy always. It's so great to have such a love!
ReplyDeleteVikki - no worries ;)