Lonely Writing
How do authors develop new stories? Inspiration comes in many forms. For example, a writer might see a speeding car and invent a racing story. Once the idea is present, a writer must take that concept to paper. There are helpful aids like outlines or index cards, but writing is a solitary process of thinking and writing/typing. Side note: Yes, we have dictation programs/people. However, that is irrelevant to the context of this line of thinking.
Writing requires immense effort and focus. Distractions are everywhere, and discipline is essential. Like every endeavor, the process improves with experience. The essence of writing is mentally organizing thoughts in solitude, and it requires the proper mindset.
However, this lonely process presents a paradox. Writers most often write about people. A writer could bypass the lonely process and instead write while interacting with people. I suppose characters become “human” once written down, but they are no substitute for the real thing.
Part of the writing’s appeal is that the act can be done in solitude. If I need a friend, I can create one. Is this a crutch? Possibly. A few dedicated writers probably need to get out more often.
As I close this blog in solitude, I look around a room and see I am the only person occupying it. I will make dinner and serve it to my family in an hour. I look forward to that activity. As for my characters, they will be right where I left them. Are they waiting for me in anticipation? Are they lonely? No, I made sure their lives were full of adventure.
You’re the best -Bill
August 19, 2020 Updated 04/08/2025
Writing requires immense effort and focus. Distractions are everywhere, and discipline is essential. Like every endeavor, the process improves with experience. The essence of writing is mentally organizing thoughts in solitude, and it requires the proper mindset.
However, this lonely process presents a paradox. Writers most often write about people. A writer could bypass the lonely process and instead write while interacting with people. I suppose characters become “human” once written down, but they are no substitute for the real thing.
Part of the writing’s appeal is that the act can be done in solitude. If I need a friend, I can create one. Is this a crutch? Possibly. A few dedicated writers probably need to get out more often.
As I close this blog in solitude, I look around a room and see I am the only person occupying it. I will make dinner and serve it to my family in an hour. I look forward to that activity. As for my characters, they will be right where I left them. Are they waiting for me in anticipation? Are they lonely? No, I made sure their lives were full of adventure.
You’re the best -Bill
August 19, 2020 Updated 04/08/2025
