Writing Doesn't Love You

Remember [that] writing doesn't love you. It doesn't care. Nevertheless, it can behave with remarkable generosity. Speak well of it, encourage others, pass it on. ~Al Kennedy

The first time I read this quote, I thought it was rather odd, and even quite pessimistic. Writing doesn't love me back? How dare it! :-)

But then, I re-read the quote and realized it's spot-on. (Go with me, on this personification thing for a minute): Writing is a fickle partner. It doesn't care if you get rejected, lose the muse, have writer's block, or lose your confidence. This is a one-sided relationship, you and writing. You give and give and give, and it takes.

But here's the good news - it's generous, too. If you devote enough of your time, enough of yourself to it, writing does reward your efforts and give you something you couldn't get anywhere else - an outlet, a form of communication, a keyhole into a fantastic, imaginary world, an opportunity to know yourself even better than before.

Remember you love writing. It wouldn't be worth it if you didn't. If the love fades, do what you need to and get it back. ~Al Kennedy